During a recent government meeting in San Francisco, concerns were raised about the treatment and compensation of custodial staff, highlighting a pressing issue for many city workers. Rafael Picazo, president of SEIU Local 1021, voiced the frustrations of custodians who have not seen a pay raise since February 2020, despite rising living costs and inflation rates reaching 9.5%.

Picazo emphasized the need for fair and equitable pay for custodians, who are facing extreme rent prices and increased workloads due to staffing shortages. He pointed out that many workers in student nutrition services are experiencing unexplained cuts to their hours, further exacerbating their financial struggles.

The meeting underscored the impact of administrative decisions on the daily lives of these workers, with Picazo calling for immediate action to address their needs. He stressed that custodians work tirelessly and deserve recognition and support, particularly in terms of compensation and benefits like vacation time.

As the city grapples with these workforce challenges, the discussion serves as a reminder of the importance of fair labor practices and the need for city officials to prioritize the well-being of all employees. The outcomes of this meeting could have significant implications for custodians and other city workers as they seek equitable treatment in the face of rising economic pressures.