July 27th 2024.
Over the weekend, a potential strike by 2,500 janitors in Denver was successfully avoided as both the union and cleaning companies reached a tentative agreement on a new contract. This is a huge relief for everyone involved, especially the members of the Service Employees International Union Local 105 who were at the forefront of the negotiations. According to the union, the new contract includes groundbreaking wage increases, safeguards against excessive workloads, and guaranteed paid sick leave. Once ratified, this will make Denver's janitors among the highest paid in the nation.
Earlier in the week, the janitors who are part of SEIU had unanimously voted to authorize a strike if the talks with the 17 cleaning contractors did not result in satisfactory terms. The main concerns of the union members were fair wages and addressing workload issues. As SEIU Local 105 president Stephanie Felix-Sowy explained, the workload has been a major issue as companies have been increasing the workload while cutting hours for the janitors.
It is worth noting that the union represents around 2,400 janitors in Denver, working in 1,500 buildings. However, the exact number of those who voted during the three-day strike authorization process was not disclosed. Fortunately, Saturday's agreement was reached just one day before the July 28 deadline, which would have triggered the strike.
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Verónica Escobedo, a Denver janitor and member of SEIU, expressed her satisfaction with the new contract in a statement released by the union. She emphasized the unity and determination of the janitors in securing this victory, stating that it will pave the way for fair wages and set a higher standard for the industry nationwide.
All 2,400 janitors represented by SEIU are bound by a "master contract" that is negotiated between the union and their employers. In this case, John Nesse represented the employers, specifically the Denver Maintenance Contractors Association, during the contract negotiations. He shared his satisfaction with the mutual agreement, stating that it will allow all parties to continue providing top-notch services to their clients. As for the janitors, they will have the final say on whether or not to ratify the new contract next week.
In conclusion, the potential strike by Denver's janitors has been successfully averted, thanks to the tireless efforts of both the union and the cleaning companies. The new contract is a major milestone for the janitors, as it addresses their key concerns and sets a higher standard for the industry. Everyone involved can now focus on their work, knowing that they have reached a fair and mutually beneficial agreement. For more business news, be sure to sign up for our Economy Now newsletter.
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