Louisville, KY – After months of contract talks, a strike authorization, and an intense campaign, TARC workers, represented by ATU Local 1447, reached a strong tentative agreement with TARC leadership, averting a potential strike as the holiday season approaches.
Over the past few months, the Union held numerous rallies with riders and community allies in their campaign for a fair and just contract. This pressure led to the final settlement that meets the demands of the Union including equal wage increases for all workers, stronger safety protections, and the creation of an apprenticeship program in the maintenance department.
“This has been a long fight and while there is more work to be done, we have negotiated a tentative agreement that we can present to the members of our union and recommend a ‘yes’ vote,” said Local President Lillian Brents. “Our members have fought hard for a contract that meets their needs and we believe this contract does that.”
The Union will be conducting a ratification vote of the agreement by the entire membership after Thanksgiving. The TARC Board will also need to vote to ratify the agreement.
“I am extremely proud of the strength, unity, and solidarity our members showed in their campaign to get this fair and just contract,” said ATU International President John Costa. “The result was a strong agreement that includes critical safety protections, wage increases, and other improvements that our frontline hero members deserve. Our members now have a pathway to the middle class for the essential public service they provide. Our fight for dignity and respect continues, but we can proudly call this a win.”