Representatives of SEIU District 1199 and worker-organizing groups used public comment on Dec. 9 to urge the Cuyahoga County Council to review contracts with Belfair Jewish Children's Bureau, a nonprofit that receives county funding for crisis treatment beds, foster care, and adoption services.

Jeff Derringer of SEIU said Belfair legally withdrew recognition of the union five days before a contract expiration in September, then disciplined workers who supported the union and offered raises to undercut representation. "Belfair has since threatened disciplined workers for standing up for their federally protected union rights," Derringer said, asking the council to "review contracts with Belfair JCB to ensure that they're in full compliance and to apply strict scrutiny to the conduct of Belfair JCB's management." He said the union is not asking the county to enforce federal labor law but to use its oversight authority over vendors and grantees.

Bryce Dawson, speaking for a workers justice committee, said more than 300 Belfair employees lost collective representation and urged council members to publicly support the workers and press Belfair management to recognize the union. Both speakers emphasized that Belfair receives millions in county funds to deliver services to vulnerable children and families, and argued that contract oversight should consider workplace practices.

Council did not take immediate formal action on Belfair contracts at the meeting, nor did the clerk present a procurement or compliance review item tied to those public comments. Speakers offered documentation and invited follow-up questions to counsel.

Next steps: SEIU representatives said they would provide documentation to council staff; councilmembers indicated committee and oversight channels could be used to request records and review contract compliance if sponsors introduce such items.