Cleveland City Council Proposes Emergency Resolution Regarding Library Labor Negotiations
Cleveland City Council has passed an emergency resolution to support Cleveland Public Library workers and urge leadership to reach a contract agreement with their union. The measure, passed as Resolution No. 975-2026, comes as approximately 400 unionized employees have set a deadline to strike for noon on August 24, 2026.
What's in the file
The resolution was introduced by Council Members Hudson, Howse-Jones, Davis, Harsh, Santana, Shah, and Slife. It serves as a formal urge for Cleveland Public Library leadership to negotiate a deal with SEIU District 1199 that supports employees while maintaining high-quality services for residents.
According to the 975-2026-FOR ADOPTION-CPL EEs strike RESO Hudson document, the resolution is based on several factors:
- The current contract negotiations have lasted eight months and included over 30 bargaining sessions.
- The primary points of contention at the bargaining table are employee wages, benefits, and improved working conditions.
- The measure is designated as an emergency measure to preserve public peace, property, health, or safety, as library services rely on these workers.
The resolution also directs the Clerk of Council to send copies of the measure to both the Cleveland Public Library Board of Trustees and representatives of SEIU District 1199.
Who may be affected
- Cleveland Public Library employees: Approximately 400 unionized workers represented by SEIU District 1199.
- Cleveland Public Library leadership and Board of Trustees: Recipients of the Council's formal urging to reach an agreement.
- Cleveland residents: Who rely on library services such as story time, job search assistance, and technology help.
Status and timeline
- August 18, 2026: The emergency resolution was introduced to City Council.
- August 19, 2026: The resolution was read a third time and passed.
Residents can verify the details of this and other legislative actions by visiting the official Cleveland City Council legislative database.
Source record
- File
- 975-2026
- Type
- Emergency Resolution
- Status
- Passed
- Committee
- City Council
- Introduced
- August 17, 2026