The negotiations, spanning most of 2026, saw staff from across city departments leverage mediation and fact-finding to push for better working conditions. Carlos Murillo, an Associate Engineer at SJC International Airport and a member of the bargaining team, noted that the agreement serves as a necessary step toward stabilizing the workforce amidst rising economic costs. By prioritizing the retention of skilled professionals, the union aims to safeguard the quality of public services that San Jose residents rely on daily.

The document now enters a formal ratification process involving both the union membership and city leadership. While the deal represents a significant milestone, union representatives emphasize that their focus remains on ensuring that city staff receive the institutional support required to maintain essential operations. The agreement signals a shift in how the municipality handles staffing challenges and emerging technological integration within its internal departments.