The GCEA, an independent governing body, is comprised of a Board led by a President, Vice-President, and multiple Directors and alternates from all city departments. Each member of the Board serves a two-year term and may be re-elected multiple terms. The GCEA aims to foster professional relationships among members, management, and the community, while enhancing members' wages and benefits.

The GCEA conducts the following business (may differ depending on circumstances):

• represents full-time general employees.

• holds bi-monthly meetings with Department Heads to address issues.

• facilitate discussions on member concerns.

• engage in community events.

• collective bargaining negotiations.

• job protection, competitive salaries, enhanced fringe benefits, and improved retirement benefits.

• grievance representation.

• monitoring of Civil Service proceedings and proposes legislative changes affecting members.

Meetings are held the 3rd Wednesday of every month, from 12:00 noon to 2:00 p.m. in a specified location (unless otherwise noted).

• All members are welcome to attend open Board Meetings. (Note: If Closed Session is called during one of the Board meetings, all attendees, except President, Vice-President, Labor Representative, and Board Directors will be asked to leave). ​​

• Board Meeting Minutes are posted at specific locations in work areas and on the website documents page.​

​The GCEA has contracts with professional labor-management representatives. Services include:

• A continuing professional survey and analysis of our wages, job classifications, and fringe benefits. 

• Professional representation when negotiating for better wages and working conditions. 

• Professional insurance consultation to help us maintain and improve our medical insurance program. 

• Representation for employees with grievances, Skelly process, and Civil Service-related matters.

Every member carries the GCEA logo with them by association, and should represent the City and GCEA responsibly, respectfully, and professionally. Be involved with the GCEA; the more Members who participate, the more leverage we have in negotiations, and the more events and activities we can participate in. Read and get familiar with your Memorandum of Understanding (MOU); it is the contract between GCEA and the City.  Online electronic versions are available. ​