Residential building workers in more than 470 buildings across the area, including many in Yonkers, have entered into contract talks with the building owners. 32BJ SEIU, the workers’ union, and BRI, the Building and Realty Institute of Westchester & the Mid-Hudson Region, began contract talks Tuesday, Aug. 25.
Workers are seeking wage and pension increases, according to a union release. Demands include wage, pension, and health plan increases, as well as changes to legal and training benefits, working conditions, and paid leave. The area union represents 1,300 workers.
“I show up every day ready to go above and beyond for my residents. In a snowstorm, a medical emergency, or if someone just needs a hand with their groceries, I’m there. But this current economy is terrifying,” said Tashnette Wilkinson, doorman at a co-op in Yonkers and 32BJ SEIU member for six years. “ Prices keep going up, and we keep cutting back. We need the real estate industry to give us our fair share. I’m ready to fight for a strong contract so that I can give my kids a stable life now and a brighter future ahead.”
Israel Melendez, 32BJ SEIU vice president and Hudson Valley director, noted that the union is focusing on non-economic issues before addressing specific wage figures. While the exact number has not yet been determined, the goal is to match the “winning formula” used in other 32BJ markets.
“ Well, I’m saying I think that this is an important time…when everybody’s using the word…I guess they think it’s a chic word that’s called affordability, but it’s really affecting our members up in Hudson Valley,” said Melendez. “So we have to be able to collectively bargain a contract that’s going to be fair to them and be able to keep them able to afford living in Hudson Valley, but also be able to take care of their families as well.”
The next bargaining sessions are set for Sept. 14 and Sept. 15.
