On September 5, 2025, UPE met and conferred with representatives from the Department of Finance regarding the implementation of a new Tax System for the Department of Finance. According to the Department, the new system will be more efficient and easier to use than the existing system. The Department plans to implement the new system on September 15, 2025, in time for the new tax roll.
Based on feedback from members at the Department, UPE let the Department know that many employees are apprehensive about the new change and the lack of training they have received in completing their tasks in the new system. UPE proposed that all updated process guides be shared with staff immediately, that staff be allowed to request additional training (including one-on-one) once the guides go out, and that the Department allow staff time away from regular duties to complete training. The County agreed to these proposals.
In addition, UPE proposed a six-month hold-harmless agreement for workers during the implementation of the new system. This means staff will be held harmless for errors, omissions, or for taking additional time with clients/tasks while learning and operating in the new system. The Department agreed to this proposal as well. UPE encourages staff to reach out to their supervisor immediately if they feel they need additional training.
During the first two weeks after implementation, representatives from the software vendor will be on-site to help troubleshoot problems. Members are encouraged to create tickets and notify their supervisor of any bugs or challenges they are experiencing in the new system.
UPE and the County will meet again approximately one month after the implementation to review any concerns after the County implements the new system.
UPE thanks Ryan McClain; Sylvia Garcia, and Dawn Richardson for their representation and advocacy during the meet and confer.
