(WBBM NEWSRADIO) — A union representing some 800 City workers is pleading with the City to clear a legal roadblock that is keeping them from getting the raises they already negotiated.
Service Employees International Union Local 73 represents workers in Traffic Control, Airport Security, Parking Enforcement and more. Traditionally they have bargained alongside IBEW, the electrical workers union. SEIU settled its Contract with the City but IBEW did not.
And SEIU Local 73 President Dian Palmer said the city is refusing to honor their contract until both are resolved.
“Imagine, going two years without a pay raise. Imagine, standing to lose pandemic pay that has been sitting in the city’s coffers all because the city and another union can come to terms,” Palmer said.
Palmer is calling on the Labor Relations Board and the City Council to help separate the two unions, so the SEIU contract can be honored.
“This move would enable our members to receive the negotiated wage increase and pandemic pay, while allowing IBEW to continue its fight.”
47th Ward Alderman Matt Martin says he and others will try to intervene.
Officials with the city say they have no comment.
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