On the Road with SEIU
Tollway Bargaining Update #3
After seeing the raises that ISTHA gave to their management, our Local 73 members gave the Union Bargaining Team a clear message: They will not ratify a contract that does not produce fair raises, increased benefits, and continued job security. Why should we expect anything less? Our members have asked this at our Union meetings. Aren't our mortgages, bills, and child care equally important?
Your Union Bargaining Team did receive the Authority's proposals and saw nothing but 'take aways'. Here are only a few of the issues that we will need to stand strong on:
1. If you are on a leave of absence without pay, your seniority will not accrue as it currently does in the contract. This means that your wages and benefits are stalled until you return.
2. All the current past practices and letters of agreement that have been developed over the years are gone unless we negotiate them into the contract.
3. Wanting to add another shift for the custodians to once again broaden the scope for shift premiums.
4. Limit the number of certifications for the Parts & Section Clerks
5. Remove holiday pay for Seniors as it currently exists.
YOUR UNION TEAM SAYS - NO WAY!!!
We are so far apart! We have proposals that demand shift premiums be made equal for all classifications and seniority that continues to accrue. We are holding them to their agreement on wage equity adjustments for certain classifications from the last negotiations. This needs to happen now! We want to continue the level of insurance benefits as well as other fair and reasonable economic advancements.
The Authority asked to cancel negotiations on February 10 so that they could meet with Governor Quinn. We agreed, but we need to know when we will meet with them again. We are still waiting on the dates.
Are you concerned about retroactive wages and benefits? So are we. This contract will not be ratified without it!