We have a major update on CAPE's fight to protect our telework flexibility
As a direct result of CAPE’s Unfair Labor Practice charge and sustained pressure from our union, the County has agreed to restore the prior telework process while bargaining and legal proceedings continue.
By now, you may have seen the County's memo announcing that telework decisions will once again be handled at the Chief level, based on operational needs and job duties.
What the County’s memo won’t say is why this change is happening: it’s happening because CAPE members stood together and fought back.
After the Assessor moved to roll back telework, CAPE took action and demanded a return to the prior process while the dispute moved forward. The County has now agreed to that temporary restoration.
What Does This Mean for You?
Beginning immediately, telework decisions will once again be made at the Chief level. Members should engage with their Chiefs and management teams regarding telework schedules and operational needs, as those decisions will no longer be governed by the broader rollback restrictions that prompted CAPE's legal challenge.
What’s Next?
Important: This is a temporary restoration of the telework scheduling process that was in place before the unilateral changes – not a final resolution.
While this represents meaningful progress, the ULP case and bargaining process are still ongoing, and the restoration will remain in place as those discussions continue. The ULP hearing originally scheduled for June 9 is expected to be continued for approximately 90 days while discussions proceed.
CAPE remains fully committed to securing long-term protections for Telework flexibility and ensuring the County respects our contract and our right to bargain over working conditions.
Telework works. It supports work-life balance, helps retain experienced professionals, and continues to allow CAPE members to deliver the high-quality public service our departments depend on every day.
This development demonstrates that when CAPE members stand together, we can make a difference. While more work remains ahead, this is an important step forward, and CAPE will continue pushing for a long-term resolution that protects our members.
