DC 33 Preparing Revised Proposal for City Submission, Union President Reports

In a recent turn of events surrounding the ongoing strike by Philadelphia’s city workers, negotiations between representatives of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees District Council 33 and city officials have stalled without reaching an agreement. The negotiations, which took place from Wednesday evening until 1:15 a.m. on Thursday, highlighted fundamental differences over wage increases, a central issue for striking workers.

Greg Boulware, the president of District Council 33, presented a proposal during the session that maintained the union’s demand for annual wage increases of 5%. To reconcile the request, Boulware indicated that the proposal included several modifications to employee benefits. This indicates a willingness to negotiate on some terms, despite the steadfast insistence on wage escalation.

In response, the city’s negotiating team, led by Chief Deputy Mayor Sinceré Harris, proposed a counteroffer that retained the previous terms from the last negotiation. This offer included a three-year contract featuring incremental raises of 2.75%, 3%, and 3% over the contract period, along with a new pay scale enhancement that introduced a fifth step. Additionally, the city proposed a bonus structure that would provide employees with an extra 2% of their annual salaries, reflecting an attempt to make the offer more attractive amid ongoing disputes.

These failed negotiations have prompted concerns about the prolongation of the strike, which has already significantly impacted city services. Workers are voicing their grievances regarding low wages in the context of rising living costs, making it imperative for city officials to address these concerns promptly.

With the impasse reached, parties involved in the negotiations have indicated that discussions are not expected to resume immediately. The lack of progress raises questions about the immediate future of city operations and employee relations within Philadelphia’s municipal workforce.

As the situation develops, local residents and city officials alike are watching closely to see if further negotiations can yield a resolution that satisfies both parties. The urgency of the matter highlights the complexities of labor relations as city workers seek fair compensation for their services in an increasingly challenging economic landscape.

The outcome of these negotiations will be crucial not only for the city workers involved in the strike but also for the effective governance and functionality of Philadelphia’s municipal services in the weeks ahead.