San Mateo County is stepping up to address the cost of living crisis for its public service workers. San Mateo County reported today that the County's Board of Supervisors has approved new contracts for most county employees, granting significant pay raises over the next three years. The contracts secured a 5 percent raise for the next two years, a 4 percent rise in 2026, and additional health care premium contributions.
The decision was hailed as an investment in the county’s workforce by Board President Warren Slocum, who stated, as per San Mateo County, “Our residents expect top-quality public service, and we firmly believe we have the best public service workers in the state.” According to the same feed, employees will receive two wellness days and celebrate Cesar Chavez Day as a paid holiday starting in 2025.
More than 4,800 public servants are represented under the new contracts. They are part of the Service Employees International Union Local 521 and the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees — two of the largest unions in the County. The job roles impacted by the contracts range from park rangers, librarians, accountants, and children's services workers.
County officials also passed new resolutions for managers, attorneys, and other unrepresented employees, ensuring these contracts align closely with union agreements. As per San Mateo County's statement, these resolutions include provisions for three days of "winter recess" in late December over the next three years. The preemptive cost of these agreements totals approximately $57 million for the first year.
An additional financial caveat is tied to a legislative decision: a 1 percent pay increase in 2026, bringing the total raise to 5 percent, is contingent upon San Mateo County receiving its full Vehicle License Fee Adjustment Amount. This fiscal aspect ties millions in tax revenues to resolving a dispute between the County and state officials.
