The union representing Metro RTA’s over 300 bus operators, vehicle maintenance workers, and clerical workers has scheduled a strike authorization vote for June 30.
If three-fifths of the union’s membership vote to strike, it will allow the Transport Workers Union Local 1 leadership to walk out on Metro at a time of its choosing. The union must give Metro 10 days notice prior to a stoppage. The vote will take place at Local 1’s union hall at 411 Wolf Ledges Parkway in Akron.
“My members have worked more than three years now without a raise and are furious at how they’ve been treated by Akron Metro management,” said Local 1 President Wayne Cole in a June 18 news release. “Akron Metro has treated transit workers like second-class citizens, with disrespect and contempt. We do not want to strike but if that’s what it takes to get a fair contract, we will strike. Enough is enough.”
On June 9, the union overwhelmingly rejected contract terms outlined in a report meant to bring an end to deadlocked contract negotiations with Metro. Metro’s board of trustees voted to accept the report.
In a June 9 statement, the Metro RTA board said that while the fact finder’s report “did not provide resolution on each proposal advanced” by the transit authority, “we believe that this report represents the conclusion of a fair process that acknowledges the complexities of the collective bargaining process.”
The board’s statement said that while the recommendations amount to “an approximate increase in the employee contribution for single and family premiums in the amount of 240% and 400% respectively,” the trustees agree with the fact finder’s conclusion that it is reasonable for union members “to increase their share to maintain the overall benefit levels. This should be seen as being preferable to reducing coverage, increasing deductibles or eliminating benefits.”
The nonbinding proposal was assembled by a neutral, state-appointed arbitrator tasked with presenting a new collective bargaining agreement based on Ohio’s State Employment Relations Board criteria.
Sticking points in negotiations include wages, insurance costs and the refusal by Metro to grant its majority-Black workforce the day off for Juneteenth, despite transit workers in Cleveland, Cincinnati, Columbus and elsewhere having the day off, the union said in its release.
Instead of retroactive raises sought for 2024 and 2025, the report suggests a one-time $3,500 payment.
The union called the recommendation “a gimmick” that doesn’t increase workers’ hourly wages and would be largely devoured by taxes.
A 4% raise is proposed in the report, but only for the last year of a three-year contract. That raise, Cole said, will be eliminated by increasing insurance rates.
TWU International President John Samuelsen said the 165,000-strong union will continue lending full support to Local 1.
“We will do whatever it takes to secure a contract that recognizes the huge responsibility Local 1 bus workers have in providing safe and necessary transportation, addresses the high cost of living, and delivers the dignity and respect they deserve,” Samuelsen said.
Contact reporter Derek Kreider at DKreider@Gannett.com or 330-541-9413.
This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Metro RTA union to hold strike vote following collapsed negotiations
Reporting by Derek Kreider, Akron Beacon Journal / Akron Beacon Journal
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Derek Kreider, Akron Beacon Journal | USA TODAY Network
