UPDATE:
Aug. 26, 2024 at 9:42 a.m.
Media Contact: Randol White, 415-515-7624
SamTrans is no longer facing the prospect of a “sick out” as Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 1574 employees withdrew their time-off requests and are reporting to work on Monday morning in scheduled numbers. We are not anticipating any service disruptions on Tuesday, either.
SamTrans would like to thank our bus operators and riders. We know that many of our customers don’t have options for a second form of transportation, so we are thrilled that they no longer face any service disruptions as they head to work, school, the grocery store, medical appointments, and other important destinations.
PREVIOUS RELEASE:
Media Contact: Randol White, 415-515-7624
Members of Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 1574 have rejected a three-year contract proposal, potentially resulting in a work stoppage that could lead to service disruptions for SamTrans customers as early as next week.
The Union turned down the District’s offer on Aug. 14 after rejecting the first proposed contract on July 5.
“We are deeply disappointed that members of ATU Local 1574 are considering taking this severe action,” said SamTrans CEO/General Manager April Chan. “Our contract offer was fair, competitive and equitable for union members. We put this proposal forth in good faith and it was endorsed by the union leadership team.”
Chan added, “We want to reassure the public that while we navigate these negotiations, we remain focused on minimizing disruptions to service. We appreciate the community’s patience and support as we work to achieve a fair and mutually beneficial agreement.”
While SamTrans plans for contingencies, it is advising customers to seek alternative transportation options on Monday, Aug. 26 and possibly Tuesday, Aug. 27. SamTrans will prioritize school service. Redi-Wheels and RediCoast paratransit service will not experience service disruption.
Despite the contract rejection, SamTrans remains committed to finding a resolution. The agency is prepared to work collaboratively with ATU Local 1574 towards an agreement that meets the needs of all parties involved.
The contract rejected by union members on Aug. 14 called for a wage increase of 4% this fiscal year, followed by 3.5% increases the following two fiscal years, plus targeted equity adjustments for Operators and Maintenance to improve competitiveness of the District’s salaries for key positions.
Upon final ratification of the proposed contract, which was contingent upon SamTrans Board of Directors approval, union members would have earned:
-
Bus Operators:18.3% pay increase over three years
-
Mechanics, Utility Workers, Storekeepers: 21.9% pay increase over three years
-
Customer Service representatives: 11.4% increase over three years.
ATU Local 1574 represents nearly 400 members in the following units – Bus Operators, Utility Workers, Storekeepers, Customer Service Representatives and Receptionists.
###
About SamTrans: The San Mateo County Transit District operates 74 routes and two on-demand service areas. Funded in part by a half-cent sales tax, the district also provides administrative support for Caltrain and the San Mateo County Transportation Authority. SamTrans has provided bus service to San Mateo County customers since 1976.
Check out our most recent Next Stop newsletter and subscribe. Also, follow SamTrans on Facebook and X.
Also, follow SamTrans on Facebook and X. Free translation assistance is available. Para traducción llama al 1.800.660.4287; 如需翻譯,請電 1.800.660.4287.