MEMBERSHIP MATTERS

UAEA is the sole employee association authorized to negotiate and make recommendations on behalf of the more than 800 employees we represent. While UAEA advocates for the interests of all employees, we specifically seek input from our members when developing our priorities and positions.

That means your membership gives you a direct voice in issues that affect your workplace, department, and MOU. UAEA leadership meets regularly with department directors and the City Manager, creating frequent opportunities to raise concerns, address issues, and bring employee perspectives directly to decision-makers.

The UAEA President also serves on committees that influence important employee programs, including deferred compensation and healthcare. If you want a meaningful opportunity to provide input on your benefits and working conditions—and help shape the issues that matter to you—UAEA membership gives you that voice.

If you ever face disciplinary action from your supervisor or management, UAEA is here to support you. Members may receive assistance during disciplinary hearings and investigations, guidance in preparing a Part 2 disciplinary response, and representation through the grievance process when we identify potential violations of employee rights.

UAEA membership is intended to provide ongoing representation and support—not simply assistance when a problem arises. As a general rule, employees who are not members at the time disciplinary action begins are not eligible to join and immediately access these resources.

Strong organizations are built by members who are invested in the work we do every day. By joining UAEA before you need assistance, you help strengthen our collective voice while ensuring that support is available when you need it most.

The City of Tempe offers a wide range of employee benefits and resources, but finding and understanding everything available to you can sometimes be a challenge. UAEA works to make those resources easier to navigate by sharing information through our weekly communications and website.

Members can also reach out to us when they need help finding a specific benefit, understanding how a program works, or figuring out where to start. While Human Resources will generally have the most current and detailed information about individual benefit programs, UAEA can help point you in the right direction and connect you with the appropriate resources.

UAEA maintains legal representation through the law offices of Napier Baillie Wilson Bacon & Tallone, P.C. Our primary attorney, Kathryn Bailie, provides guidance on grievances and MOU negotiations, assists with legal documents, and, when needed, represents UAEA in legal proceedings.

Members can also benefit from several services offered through the firm, including free wills and discounts on select legal services. When a member needs assistance with a matter outside the firm’s areas of practice—such as contracts, discrimination concerns, or other specialized legal issues—the firm can also help connect members with trusted attorneys and resources throughout Arizona.

UAEA hosts 11 member meetings throughout the year, giving members regular opportunities to stay informed, connect with colleagues from across the City, and engage directly with UAEA leadership.

Meetings provide a chance to hear updates from the Executive Team, learn more about employee benefits and resources, ask questions of benefit representatives, and, from time to time, hear directly from City leaders and other key decision-makers.

Membership also means making time to connect beyond the workplace. Each December, UAEA hosts an annual holiday celebration—a chance to relax, connect with colleagues, and celebrate the year together.

Each spring, UAEA offers a college scholarship opportunity for UAEA members and their children. The program provides eligible applicants with an opportunity to receive financial assistance toward their education.

Throughout the year, UAEA also hosts a variety of contests and special opportunities for members and their families, with chances to win prizes and get involved beyond the workplace.

It’s one more way we invest in our members and the families who support them.