July 27th 2024.
Over the weekend, a potential strike by 2,500 janitors in Denver was successfully avoided. After a series of negotiations, the unionized group and cleaning companies were able to reach a tentative agreement on a new contract.
The Service Employees International Union Local 105, which represents the janitors, announced that the new contract includes significant wage increases, measures to prevent excessive workloads, and guaranteed paid sick leave. This means that janitors in Denver will now have some of the highest salaries in the entire country once the contract is officially ratified.
Earlier in the week, the SEIU members unanimously voted to authorize a strike if their demands were not met by the 17 cleaning contractors they were negotiating with. Their main concerns were fair wages and dealing with the increasing workload they were facing.
Stephanie Felix-Sowy, president of SEIU Local 105, explained that the workload issue was a major concern for their members. Many of them were facing additional tasks and responsibilities while their hours were being cut, which was putting a strain on their livelihoods.
While the union represents approximately 2,400 janitors across 1,500 buildings in Denver, the total number of votes cast during the three-day voting period was not disclosed. Fortunately, an agreement was reached just one day before the July 28 deadline, which would have resulted in a strike.
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Verónica Escobedo, a Denver janitor, expressed her satisfaction with the new contract in a statement released by SEIU. She stated, "Janitors across the Denver metro stood together and fought hard for this. This contract will provide us with livable wages and raise the standards for our industry nationwide. This is a major victory."
All 2,400 janitors represented by SEIU are under one "master contract" that is negotiated between them and their respective employers. John Nesse, who represented the employers in the contract negotiations, expressed his satisfaction with the outcome. He stated, "The DMCA employers are pleased to have reached a mutual agreement with the union so that all parties can continue to focus on providing the highest level of service to our clients."
The janitors will have the opportunity to vote and officially ratify the new contract next week. Denver Post reporter Judith Kohler contributed to this report. Stay informed on the latest business news by signing up for our Economy Now newsletter.
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