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Transit workers and allies urge Council to back ATU 1005 labor priorities
Summary
Several ATU 1005 leaders and allied union representatives told the Council that transit operations depend on well‑paid, supported workers and urged the Council to support equitable contracts and safety improvements for operators.
Multiple Metro Transit workers and labor allies used the public comment period on July 8 to press the Metropolitan Council to back ATU 1005 contract demands and to prioritize operator safety.
Elena Portlance, an apprentice diesel mechanic and ATU 1005 member, said transit service recovery depends on the people who operate and maintain buses and trains and urged the Council to consider "offering the ATU 1005 an equitable contract that doesn't devalue the labor of my union siblings." She described taking long shifts and said transit workers deserve competitive wages.
Paul Kerkdavidoff of UFCW Local 663 and Andrew Boardman, recording secretary for ATU 1005, voiced solidarity and highlighted the vital role operators play for riders; David Stiggers, ATU 1005 president, thanked the Council for prior interventions that protected members and said the union plans to press the Council on emerging technology and safety issues, including potential impacts from artificial intelligence.
Speakers praised recent improvements in cleanliness and operations and asked the Council to continue supporting frontline staff. The public comments were recorded for the Council's consideration; no formal contract action was before the Council at the meeting.
