Hearty congratulations are in order for the Prince William County Police Association IUPA Local 5010 (PWCPA). In April 2023, PWCPA was certified as the exclusive bargaining agent for the police bargaining unit in Prince William County. PWCPA is the first labor organization to file a petition for an election and to achieve certification after the Prince William County Board of Supervisors passed a collective bargaining ordinance in the fall of 2022.
PWCPA ran uncontested on the ballot, which is not surprising due to its long history of fighting for sworn officers in Prince William County. PWCPA worked side by side with IAFF and SEIU throughout the legislative process to push for a comprehensive collective bargaining ordinance. And PWCPA fought relentlessly to secure a much needed 17% hike in starting pay for officers effective January 1, 2023.
The Union is looking forward to negotiations with the County beginning in Spring of 2023. Collective bargaining will provide labor with a seat at the table to discuss pressing issues with management and to reach agreement on these issues. This process is seen as vital as law enforcement agencies throughout the region and the country struggle with an unprecedented crisis in recruitment and retention.