Meet and Confer Update: Airports Dispatch Emergency Staffing

On September 19, 2025, United Public Employees (UPE) again met with the Department of Airports to address the ongoing staffing shortages impacting Airport Operations Dispatchers (AODs) and Senior AODs. The County explained that vacancies, retirements, and leaves of absence continue to leave the Airports short-staffed, forcing dispatchers to work both voluntary and mandatory overtime. To meet state emergency service requirements, supervisors and Airport Operations Officers (AOOs) are still being called in to cover shifts when needed.

The County is continuing with the following measures for now: first, voluntary overtime will be offered to all AODs and Sr. AODs. Second, if no one accepts, supervisors will be assigned. Third, if coverage is still not filled, AODs and Sr. AODs will be scheduled for mandatory overtime. Finally, if no AODs, Sr. AODs, or supervisors are available, AOOs will be assigned.

The County assured UPE that they are still actively recruiting and hiring for AOD and Sr. AOD positions. This plan is still temporary, and UPE and the County agreed to possibly extend these measures and meet again in approximately two months if staffing shortages are still low and another extension is needed.

UPE will continue to monitor the situation closely and stand up for members’ rights. Please contact your UPE business agent if you have any questions or concerns.

UPE THANKS UPE 005 GOVERNING BOARD MEMBER ERICKA JONES FOR HER STRONG ADVOCACY AND SUPPORT.