Day 3 of Philly’s trash strike
Philadelphia municipal workers are on strike for a third day, meaning decreased city services and no trash pickup. Will DC 33 and Mayor Cherelle Parker come to an agreement?
Listen 50:33
A pile of trash at Queen Lane and Germantown Avenue in Philadelphia. The intersection was listed as a drop-off site, while dumpsters were actually in the middle of Queen Lane. (Kimberly Paynter/WHYY)
Municipal workers in the largest union in Philadelphia are on strike. Pools and libraries are closed, recreation centers have reduced hours, and there are delays at the departments of water and public health. But the top concern for most residents – and the most visible sign of the work stoppage, is the trash that is starting to pile up in dumpsters and on sidewalks around the city.
Sanitation workers in AFSCME District Council 33 are at a stalemate with Mayor Cherelle Parker over wages. The city has offered a more than 13% pay increase over four years, but union members say the proposal doesn’t keep up with the cost of living or allow them to save. Parker says the contract is fair and fiscally responsible but workers want more.
The fight has been ugly. Union members are accused of blocking the entrance to city-designated sanitation centers and a water treatment plant. At least one worker has been arrested for tire-slashing, and police say they continue to receive complaints about vandalism and intimidation. Can the union’s leverage tactics win them a better deal? How willing is Parker to stand firm? As neighborhoods begin to overflow with heaps of trash – and possibly roaches and rats — residents are stuck in the middle debating how to react.
On this episode of Studio 2, we’ll get the latest on the municipal workers strike, its impact so far, and how residents are coping and the city’s response.
Guests:
Tom MacDonald – Reporter for WHYY News
Terrill Haigler – Former sanitation worker also known as Ya Fav Trashman
Greg Boulware – President of AFSCME District Council 33
WHYY is your source for fact-based, in-depth journalism and information. As a nonprofit organization, we rely on financial support from readers like you. Please give today.
Brought to you by Studio 2
Delaware lawmakers approve regulations for toxic PFAS chemicals
Regulations demanding Delaware water providers test for PFAS would take effect a year before federal requirements.
3 days ago
Listen 1:14
Philly’s U.S. Rep. Dwight Evans says he’ll retire at end of term
Evans, who had a stroke last year, won’t leave office until 2027. His announcement will likely set off a primary scramble to find his successor.
4 days ago
Listen 1:16
Philadelphia city workers union leader says they will walk if no deal by July 1
The union head says they are double digits apart on wage demands, as the clock ticks towards a Tuesday morning strike deadline.
1 week ago