Union Opens Negotiations with the MTA

APRIL 3 -- TWU Local 100 President Tony Utano gave MTA management a comprehensive list of contract demands as he kicked off negotiations Wednesday at the Union Hall.Flanked by the top 10 elected officers, and backed by dozens of Local 100 Executive Board members, Utano outlined the case for a fair, inflation-beating agreement:

·      We are a trained and dedicated force of professionals who deliver a critical service moving millions of people a day by bus and subway.
·      We work around the clock in a stressful and hazardous environment. Since the last round of contract talks, three transit workers were killed on the job and hundreds more were injured in assaults or accidents.
·      We’ve begun to turn back the tide of delays with the Subway Action Plan. The MTA’s own metrics show service is improving because of the increased inspections, repairs and other work being done by Local 100 members.
·      The MTA’s finances have significantly improved. The state Legislature approved new funding streams for the authority: Congestion Pricing, a new real-estate tax on the sale of mansions, and a new Internet sales tax. The MTA board also enacted fare and toll hikes.
 
    “Our members expect a fair and equitable agreement,” Utano said. “We have worked hard for it. We deserve it. “There is no need to be nickel and diming us. And there is certainly no reason for your side of the table to be demanding givebacks of any kind.”  Utano defined a fair and equitable contract as one that keeps workers ahead of inflation, enhances on-the-job safety, protects health benefits and addresses numerous departmental concerns. It also means a pact that drives down the “ridiculous and unnecessary amount of discipline for trivial violations across every title,” Utano said.

Utano presented the demands to an MTA delegation led by Chief Employee Relations and Administrative Officer Anita Miller. The package was developed during a three-month process during which members presented proposals to their sectional and divisional officer. The Local 100 Contract Policy Committee put together a final package that was reviewed and approved by the Executive Board. “I would like to add that our Executive Board unanimously adopted this package,” Utano told MTA brass. “This is a powerful indication that the entire leadership and membership are solidly behind this effort.” Both sides agreed to confer on dates for main table and divisional negotiations. The current contract expires on May 15.