Courtenay, BC — The Comox Valley Regional District (CVRD) announced today that the United Steelworkers, Local 1-1937 Union has served the CVRD with 72-hour strike notice.
The United Steelworkers Union represents the 101 unionized employees for the Comox Valley Sports and Aquatic Centres. A successful strike vote by the union was taken on May 4, 2026, which provides the union the mandate to take strike action.
Negotiations commenced on February 11, 2026 to renew the collective agreement that expired on January 31, 2026. To date, the parties have met for six bargaining days for the purpose of renewing and amending the current collective agreement. Despite the parties finding mutual ground on several matters, a final agreement has not been reached.
The CVRD feels that the employer’s last tabled proposal is fair and very much aligned with other recently settled collective agreements.
“We have met in good faith, offering proposals that reflect our commitment to supporting employees while maintaining fiscal responsibility to our residents,” said James Warren, CVRD Chief Administrative Officer. “Unfortunately, the parties were not able to come together on some key issues.”
The CVRD emphasized that its proposals aim to balance competitive compensation and benefits with long-term budget stability and delivery of recreational services for the region.
“We deeply value the work of our employees and remain committed to constructive negotiations,” Warren added. “We stand prepared to return to the bargaining table to continue the discussions and are hopeful of a getting to a successful agreement.”
The Comox Valley Regional District is a partnership of three electoral areas and three municipalities operating on the unceded traditional territory of the K’ómoks First Nation, the traditional keepers of the land. The members of the regional district work collaboratively on providing sustainable services for the benefit of the diverse urban and rural areas of the Comox Valley.
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Media Contact:
James Warren
CVRD Chief Administrative Officer
250-334-6007