AFSCME District Council 33, one of Philadelphia’s largest labor unions representing city workers, is gearing up for a potential strike. The union has announced an Emergency General Membership Meeting scheduled for Tuesday, June 10, at its headquarters in University City, where members will vote on whether to strike.
The urgency comes in light of ongoing tensions between the union and the city regarding contract negotiations. A message on social media from the union highlighted a city contract proposal dated from January, which lacked specific commitments to pay raises, stating that the city would award increases ‘consistent with the City’s ability to pay and the Five-Year Plan.’
City officials, including Mayor Cherelle Parker, have expressed optimism that a fair contract can be negotiated. Mayor Parker noted that her administration’s budget includes half a billion dollars for wage increases, emphasizing a commitment to fostering agreements that are both fiscally responsible and fair for city workers.
Despite this, the specifics within the city’s proposal have sparked discontent among union members. The proposal includes significant changes to the payment structure for health and welfare costs, pushing for employees to be placed under a single health plan—a move that has historically faced resistance from workers who prefer the union’s existing benefit options.
Additionally, the contract proposal outlines revisions to co-pays and deductibles, which have been contentious issues in past negotiations. It also introduces potential alterations to sick leave policies, granting the city more authority to manage time taken for doctor’s visits, along with stipulations for banked sick time related to long-term illnesses.
The city’s initial proposal sought greater control over overtime and the extensive use of part-time workers, adding to the growing chorus of concerns from union members. Mayor Parker, a longstanding supporter of labor unions, conveyed during a recent statement that the budget reflects the city’s dedication to addressing the needs of its workers.
‘When you think about our budget, you’re thinking about the tax investments that we make. I have to balance these investments with multiyear contracts for our municipal unions, and we’re doing our best to ensure fairness,’ the Mayor emphasized.
Negotiations between the city and all unions are described as ongoing, highlighting a desire from the administration to achieve a resolution that meets both the city’s financial constraints and the demands of the workforce. Mayor Parker refrained from commenting on the particulars of the negotiations but reaffirmed her administration’s commitment to presenting a budget that accommodates contract changes.
Council President Kenyatta Johnson has indicated that he aims to finalize the city’s budget by Thursday, June 5, collaborating closely with Mayor Parker’s administration to meet that goal. Should the budget be introduced this week, a final vote is set for June 12, just before City Council enters its summer recess, which typically sees minimal public meetings while members focus on district work.
As the union prepares for a potentially pivotal vote on a strike, the outcome could have far-reaching implications for city workers and the broader negotiations for fair labor practices within Philadelphia.
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