Philadelphia’s largest municipal union threatens to halt city operations without a timely contract agreement.
Philadelphia’s largest municipal workers’ union, AFSCME District Council 33 (DC33), has signaled a potential escalation of labor unrest, indicating an intention to “shut this city down” if contract negotiations with Mayor Cherelle Parker’s administration do not conclude with a favorable agreement by the end of June. The announcement emerged from statements made by Greg Boulware, the president of DC33, following five months of stagnant contract discussions. Boulware has criticized the city for not presenting an initial financial framework until May, which has contributed to the strained negotiations.
As the situation develops, DC33 began voting this week on whether to authorize a strike, with results expected to be announced shortly. The president of DC33 expressed frustration over minimal progress in discussions, asserting that the city’s proposals primarily consist of concessions that are unacceptable to union members. In response to media inquiries regarding specifics, a spokesperson for the mayor’s office refrained from commenting, citing the ongoing negotiations.
The backdrop to this labor dispute includes the recent approval of Parker’s .8 billion budget by City Council, which allocates 0 million for wage increases across Philadelphia’s municipal unions. During the budget discussion, Parker highlighted the unprecedented nature of this labor reserve and reiterated her commitment to being a pro-labor mayor who balances fiscal responsibility with fairness.
DC33 primarily represents about 10,000 blue-collar city employees, which include workers in sanitation, parks and recreation, correctional officers, and various other essential roles. The current average salary of DC33 members ranges between ,000 and ,000, which, according to Boulware, makes many union members eligible for public assistance programs based on household size.
The union’s latest demands include a three-year contract set to expire in 2028, which entails annual cost-of-living adjustments, an 8% wage increase per year, and a lump-sum payment of ,000 for those who worked in-person during the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, DC33 seeks to relax current residency requirements, as many members struggle with rising living costs, prompting concerns that they could be priced out of Philadelphia.
As negotiations continue, the tone remains tense. The city’s current offer includes a 2% annual wage increase over the next four years, which critics argue is insufficient given the rising costs of living. Boulware is scheduled to meet with city officials for further discussions in the coming days, amid concerns that approximately 7,500 DC33 members could be poised to strike if no agreement is reached.
In historical context, DC33 last went on strike in 1986, a significant labor action that resulted in considerable operational disruptions across the city. With both sides entrenched in their positions, the outcome of these negotiations remains uncertain, and the potential for strike action looms as a critical factor in determining the future of municipal labor relations in Philadelphia.
Media News Source
