City union approves contract, signaling the end of Mayor Cherelle Parker’s summer of labor unrest in white-collar sectors.

Members of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees District Council 47, which represents white-collar city workers, have successfully ratified a new three-year contract with the administration of Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle L. Parker. This decision concludes a period of significant labor tension in the city, particularly following a notable strike by another municipal union that lasted more than eight days.

The voting results indicated strong approval for the contract, with approximately 84% of participating members supporting it. Union President April Gigetts reported on Friday that about 55% of the nearly 4,000 union members cast their ballots during the ratification process.

The newly ratified agreement includes provisions for annual wage increases of 2.5%, 3%, and another 3% in the subsequent years. Additionally, all union members will receive a one-time bonus of ,250 and a 1% raise at the fifth step of the pay scale. The contract also features improvements for employees working evening and overnight shifts, as well as increased city contributions toward healthcare claims for members of DC 47.

According to Mayor Parker’s administration, the total cost of this new agreement is projected to be around million over five years. Negotiations that resulted in this contract concluded early on July 15, reflecting an ongoing commitment to resolving labor issues amicably.

Parker characterized the ratified agreement as a “milestone,” highlighting its role in assuring the city’s public service employees feel valued. She emphasized that the collaborative efforts between her administration and the union signify a dedication to investing in the workforce, which is crucial for the city’s continued success.

Prior to the agreement, the contracts for the four primary municipal unions had expired on July 1. At that time, DC 47 extended its contract to facilitate continued negotiations with the Parker administration. In contrast, the striking DC 33, which represents about 9,000 blue-collar workers including sanitation personnel and 911 operators, adopted a more confrontational stance, which disrupted many city services for over a week.

In related developments, the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 5 and the International Association of Fire Fighters Local 22 are the remaining municipal unions still in negotiation for new contracts. Public safety unions are restricted by state law from striking and instead utilize a binding interest arbitration process to determine contract terms.

Despite the recent resolution with DC 47, tensions remain palpable within Philadelphia’s labor climate, particularly with the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers facing contract expiration on August 31, pushing members to endorse a strike authorization. Conflict resolution within such unions will be critical for the city’s labor environment moving forward, as a teachers’ strike could significantly impact both the School District of Philadelphia and the broader city administration.

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