Members of CUPE Local 831, which represents about 900 full-time city workers in Brampton, voted overwhelmingly in favour of strike action on July 30 as negotiations with the city continue.

Both sides are emphasizing that a strike mandate doesn’t necessarily mean a strike is imminent, simply that members have granted union negotiators the power to invoke one should talks deteriorate.

According to Local 831 president Fabio Gazzola, its membership includes all full-time city employees except for those working for transit, the library, and police and emergency services. As well, part-time workers and other non-union staff aren't affected. The previous two-year pact with the city expired on March 31, Gazzola said.

“We gave the city notice to bargain in basically the first week of January (and) we met with them for 12 days. The most recent pass things were starting to slow down and getting to a point of a stalemate. That’s essentially what triggered going to the membership to get the mandate,” he said.

The union remains ready and willing to negotiate and optimistic for a new deal, with new meeting dates with the city currently being discussed.

“There is no specific hard deadline. But, with that being said ... we want to get a deal done and wrap things up,” Gazzola said, adding that the workers want a longer deal.

“We want a fair and respectful deal ... There are traditional asks in bargaining any contract, but there’s even opportunity to clean up the language and provide some clarity. And there’s always safety items.”

Both the union and the city noted that a strike vote is common in collective bargaining negotiations, and residents shouldn’t yet be overly concerned, with the city equally ready to negotiate.

“A strike vote is one of several preconditions required before a union can lawfully commence a strike of employees in the bargaining unit. The vote itself and the supportive response from the membership does not mean a labour disruption will occur now or in the future,” city spokesperson Natalie Stogdill said.

“Negotiations between the city and CUPE are ongoing, and both parties have indicated a strong commitment towards further discussions. The city remains committed to achieving a contract renewal that is fair for our employees, the city and the residents of Brampton.”