Amid the City of Long Beach’s (Calif.) cost-cutting efforts, IAM Local 1930 members have defied the odds and ratified a strong tentative agreement that includes 8.4% general wage increases over three years, targeted equity pay adjustments, signing bonuses, expanded skill pay and limits on using artificial intelligence in discipline. The deal also increases compensatory time and awaits City Council approval later this month.
“Solidarity is the best tool workers have in their tool chest. Our members at the City of Long Beach showed tremendous unity and tenacity to meet the challenges the city’s budget holds for the near future,” said IAM Western Territory General Vice President Robert “Bobby” Martinez. “In the IAM Union, we fight for every worker and every job. We are proud of our members who found strength to stand together and demand what they deserve.”
The agreement notably includes new language to limit the use of Artificial Intelligence in discipline procedures. Long standing concerns about outdated job classification language and working outside of job classifications have been addressed in the contract, with follow-on procedures to be agreed to by both parties.
In July, the city manager released a proposed budget for 2027 that included nearly $60 million in cuts. The budget called for cutting 367 jobs by eliminating 158 vacant positions and 209 filled positions, roughly a 4% cut to the city’s workforce — half of whom are Local 1930 members. The proposed cuts targeted both union and non-union jobs, mainly at public libraries and in public health departments.
“We had been internally organizing new members before the budget plan was released, but once the layoffs were announced, we heard from a lot more people,” said IAM Western Territory International Representative Ryan Carrillo.
Carrillo along with the Local and District, coordinated 13 teams, made up of 28 organizers, to support the organizing campaign and bring new members into Local 1930. The efforts resulted in 551 new members joining the union, an 11% increase in membership. This growth strengthened the IAM’s position at the bargaining table as negotiations with the city continued, and workforce reductions were being proposed.
“The 2026 Negotiation Team came together from every sector of the city, united by one common goal: to secure the best possible contract for our Local 1930 members,” said IAM Local 1930 President Eligio Garcia. “It was a hard-fought battle, but through teamwork, determination, and solidarity, they stood together and came back with stronger protections for our members. I am incredibly proud of this team, their dedication, and everything they accomplished. They showed what we can achieve when we stand united and fight for one another. Solidarity makes us stronger!”
Their efforts paid off, and the city has agreed to largely reduce the workforce through not filling vacancies and normal attrition of employees, while also securing an agreement to avoid a winter holiday closure for the first year. These outcomes represent important victories for Local 1930 members and the city workforce. The IAM and the city will continue working through these issues in future discussions to address the remaining concerns and protect members moving forward.
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