On October 10, 2025, UPE met with Merced County's Department of Public Works to discuss two proposed policies that affect our members: the Animal Feeding Policy and the After-Hours Worksite Access Policy.
The Animal Feeding Policy, as proposed by the County, would ban employees from feeding any animals—stray, wild, or domestic—on County property or anywhere in the public right-of-way. That includes feeding cats, dogs, birds, or leaving out food or water dishes near buildings or dumpsters. UPE strongly objected to the language about "public right-of-way." We made it clear that employees have the right to use public spaces during their personal time, and the County should not control what you do on your own time on public property. The language was subsequently changed to County-owned right-of-ways, not all public areas. Our goal is to protect your freedom and prevent unfair restrictions when you're off the clock.
Notably, the After-Hours Worksite Access Policy will require employees to get manager approval if they want to be on the worksite more than 30 minutes before or after their scheduled shift, or anytime they're not officially working or on approved overtime. The County wants to track access for safety and security reasons. Notably, exceptions to this access could occur if circumstances arise.
UPE will continue to meet with the County and speak up on your behalf. We're fighting to keep policies fair, reasonable, and respectful of your rights both on the job and during your personal time. If you have questions or need help, reach out to your UPE representative.
UPE WOULD LIKE TO THANK MERCED COUNTY UNIT 3 GOVERNING BOARD MEMBERS LISA SYKES AND MONICA LERMA FOR THEIR ADVOCACY AND SUPPORT.
