What is Binding Arbitration? Binding Arbitration is a fair and impartial process, used by business and government, to resolve disagreements between parties.

How does Binding Arbitration work? In this process an impartial arbitrator, and a representative from each of the disagreeing parties, evaluate the positions of each side of the dispute. It is the arbitrator's goal to assist the parties to reach agreement themselves. Failing that, the arbitrator makes a decision based on all available facts. The arbitrator's decision is "binding" on the parties.

What does signing the petition mean? By signing the petition, you help to place the measure on the ballot. Then you can hear both sides and, ultimately, cast your vote.

Will Binding Arbitration increase taxes? NO! In fact, there could be tax savings. Long and expensive labor negotiations will be avoided with implementation of this measure.

Will Binding Arbitration stop strikes? Yes. The measure will provide for a local statutory provision prohibiting strikes by firefighters and police officers. The measure provides for discipline up to, and including, termination for firefighters or police officers who participate in this strike. Current state law provides no such penalty.

Will Binding Arbitration take away funds from other city programs? No, and has not happened in any city that has binding arbitration.

What other cities in California have Binding Arbitration? Sa1inas, Watsonville, Gilroy, San Jose, Santa Cruz, San Luis Obispo, Palo Alto, Redwood City, San Francisco, Hayward, Oakland, San Leandro, Napa, Vallejo, Santa Rosa, Stockton, Modesto, Sacramento, Petaluma, and Anaheim.