DC 33 members to vote next week on a new contract after eight days of striking.

Following an eight-day strike by members of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees District Council 33, a tentative contract agreement with Mayor Cherelle L. Parker’s administration is set to be voted upon next week. This will mark an important milestone as the city emerges from its first significant public workers’ strike since 1986, which brought trash collection and various municipal services to a standstill.

The ratification vote, which will take place via paper ballot, is scheduled to commence at the union’s headquarters in West Philadelphia starting Monday or Tuesday. The voting process is expected to extend over several days, with the outcome anticipated to be finalized within one to two weeks. The contract’s provisional implementation will see over 9,000 blue-collar employees, part of the city’s largest and lowest-paid municipal union, return to their jobs immediately. However, the contract will only officially take effect upon successful ratification by the union members.

During the negotiations, which extended into the July Fourth holiday, wages remained a contentious issue. The recently agreed-upon three-year contract stipulates annual wage increases of 3%, closely aligning with Parker’s initial offer but falling short of the 5% raise that the union sought. Additionally, the deal provides for a one-time ,500 bonus and introduces a fifth step in the union pay scale, which is projected to elevate salaries for veteran members by approximately 2%. Notably, members will not receive remuneration for the days lost during the strike, according to union legal representatives.

Labor historian Francis Ryan, an expert on DC 33, noted that while municipal unions in Philadelphia have historically ratified agreements, this case may provoke a more vigorous debate among members. The union’s executive board has already voted 21-5 in favor of the proposed contract, signaling some level of agreement among union leadership despite potential discontent among the rank-and-file.

Union President Greg Boulware emphasized the necessity of the strike, stating that members’ demands reflected their experiences and essential contributions to the city. Although he expressed satisfaction with maintaining control over the union’s Health and Welfare Fund amidst negotiations, he acknowledged that the fight for fair treatment and resources for city workers will continue.

As the Philadelphia community prepares for the results of the ratification vote, it remains to be seen how the agreement will be received by the broader membership and whether it will set new precedents for labor negotiations in the city.

Media News Source.