Thousands of municipal workers in Edmonton are preparing to strike Thursday after rejecting the city’s latest contract offer, a move that will shut down libraries, recreation centres, pools, and other civic facilities.

Civic Service Union 52, which represents about 6,000 employees, announced the strike Monday after members voted against a proposed 7.25 per cent wage increase spread over five years from 2021 to 2025. The walkout will involve library staff, clerical workers, IT employees, and front-line staff at arts and fitness centres.

City councillors warned Tuesday that meeting union wage demands could require a 2.5 per cent increase in property taxes this year. Mayor Amarjeet Sohi said the city is still seeking a negotiated settlement but acknowledged the dispute will disrupt many public services.

Union president Lenny Chudick accused the city of refusing to return to the bargaining table. “Our members kept Edmonton running through the pandemic and deserve fair compensation. Instead of negotiating, the city is choosing to shut down services and blame workers,” he said.

Gurpreet Kaur, a daycare worker who regularly takes children to the recreation centre near Mill Woods, told Connect Newsroom the closures will hurt families and residents are bracing for the impact. “These centres are part of our routine. The kids learn to swim here and it gives parents a safe space for them to be active. Without it, many families will struggle,” she said.

The city says essential services such as police, fire, and waste collection will not be affected. Mediation efforts are expected to continue later this week.