A labor dispute is emerging around the massive Sites Reservoir project, a cornerstone of California’s long-term water storage strategy, as union leaders raise concerns over the recommended construction contractor.
Barnard Construction, a Montana-based and non-union firm, is set to be recommended for selection by the Sites Reservoir Authority board on Friday. The recommendation has drawn criticism from the Nor Cal Carpenters Union, which argues the company lacks the local workforce connections needed to meet hiring requirements tied to the project.
Jay Bradshaw, executive officer for the Nor Cal Carpenters Union, questioned the Authority’s decision to move forward with Barnard, warning that the selection could create labor and compliance challenges.
“There’s trouble here,” Bradshaw said. “Pump the brakes.”
Under project guidelines, the Sites Reservoir Authority would require that 20% of all construction hires come from Yolo, Colusa and Glenn counties — where the reservoir will be built — and that 50% of workers live within the broader Sacramento Valley. Bradshaw said he doubts Barnard can realistically meet those thresholds.
“Is it your concern that they would not fulfill those requirements, even if they’re signing on some paper that says they will?” a reporter asked Bradshaw.
“We don’t think they can,” Bradshaw said. “To be able to do that, you have to have relationships and connections.”
In response, Barnard Construction sent a letter to the Sites Authority addressing the union’s criticism, stating its intent “to dispel some of the misinformation being put forth by the Northern California Carpenters Union.” The company also pointed to labor backing it says it has already secured, noting that “the [State Building Trades Council of California], representing 14 crafts and 150 local unions, committed to support and work with Barnard on the project.”
Bradshaw remained unconvinced, warning that reliance on out-of-state labor could introduce enforcement and oversight issues once construction begins.
.jpg)
“Based on their track record, there’ll be out-of-state workers brought in. Now you have a policing issue potentially,” Bradshaw said.
The Sites Reservoir project is expected to begin construction later this year. Once complete, the $6 billion reservoir would hold up to 1.5 million acre-feet of water — enough to supply approximately three million households for a full year — making it one of the largest water infrastructure projects in California history.
JP Robinette, the Sites Project Authority’s engineering and construction manager, said the agency has carefully reviewed feedback from all stakeholders while standing by its recommendation.
“We take all stakeholder feedback seriously, Robinette said. “I want to make it really clear our priority is to put Californians to work on this job.”
Robinette added that the Authority remains open to continued input but believes Barnard is capable of delivering the project.
Bradshaw, however, reiterated the union’s opposition ahead of the upcoming vote.
“We do not believe Barnard is anywhere near qualified for something of this scope and size,” Bradshaw said.
The reservoir committee and the Sites Authority Board are both scheduled to vote Friday morning on whether to formally name Barnard Construction as the lead builder for the project.
Originally reported by Steve Large in KION Central Coast.
.png)
