SEPTA union looks for raises up to 5 percent in next contract

SEPTA management is continuing to negotiate with the union representing bus, subway, and trolley operators to come to a new contract agreement. Transport Workers Union Local 234 delivered a proposal to management yesterday, and SEPTA officials are expected to bring a counter-offer this morning.

SEPTA management is continuing to negotiate with the union representing bus, subway, and trolley operators to come to a new contract agreement. Transport Workers Union Local 234 delivered a proposal to management yesterday, and SEPTA officials are expected to bring a counter-offer this morning.

Transcript:
According to TWU Local 234 Union President Willie Brown, the offer for the four year contract called for raises ranging from 3 percent in the first year of the contract to 5 percent in the fourth year. He says SEPTA’s plan offered no raise the first and second year, and 2 percent for the third and fourth year.

But though it might seem that the two sides are far apart, Brown says he will not call for a strike when the current contract expires Saturday at midnight. Both sides say they are optimistic they will eventually agree on a contract, even if it means extending the current deal beyond the deadline.

The union is also asking for a $25 increase in monthly pension contributions from SEPTA for every employee.

Listen:
Click on the play button below or right click on this link and choose “Save Link As” to download. [audio: reports20090311septa.mp3]