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The city's professional employees voted overwhelmingly on Tuesday to unionize with AFSCME Council 20, casting 155 votes in favor and just one against — a 99.4% margin that completes a historic sweep of Alexandria's municipal workforce.
The vote marks the fifth time since 2021 that an eligible city bargaining unit has elected union representation, with three of those units — labor and trades, administrative and technical, and now professionals — represented by AFSCME.
The newly organized unit spans accountants, urban planners, senior therapists, and other professional-grade city employees. The Labor Relations Authority is expected to certify the result on March 11, after which the union's attorney will petition the city to begin contract negotiations.
"Winning this is not just a victory for one person, it's a victory for every worker who believes in fairness and respect," said Tia Littlejohn-Adams, a city accountant, in a provided statement. "Together, we didn't just campaign — we built unity among members and colleagues."
The professional employees enter negotiations with a clear picture of what's achievable. In January, the City Council voted to commit funding for three collective bargaining agreements covering Fire and EMS employees, sworn Police officers, and administrative and technical workers — deals that take effect July 1 and run through June 30, 2029. The administrative and technical unit's first AFSCME contract, the closest comparable to the professionals unit, secured wage increases of 3% in FY27, 2.75% in FY28, and 1.5% in FY29, along with merit increases and longevity bonuses.
Labor and trades workers, also represented by AFSCME, reached a first contract with the city in 2023 that established raises and a step-and-grade pay schedule.
Urban planner Jared Alves said in a provided statement that Tuesday's margin sent a clear message. "This resounding vote signals that Alexandria professionals know that we are stronger together. Now let's turn this victory into action."
Steve Frutos, a senior therapist in the Department of Community and Human Services, framed the win in a statement as a civic matter as much as a workplace one. "It's long overdue to have a real voice in how we do our vital work for the residents of Alexandria. The more we can achieve as a union, the more our city stands to gain."
The unit will now move to form a bargaining committee to shape proposals ahead of contract negotiations. A celebration event is being planned, with details to be announced.
