Coach operators agree to a three-year deal ensuring sustainable bus service
July 12, 2010
ORANGE – The Orange County Transportation Authority Board of Directors and Teamsters Local 952 announced today they have reached a deal on a new three-year collective bargaining agreement.
After two years of bus service cuts and layoffs to coach operators and administrative staff, the contract will allow Orange County’s public transit system to begin emerging from the worst financial crisis in its history.
The contract calls for no change in wages the first two years. In the third year, there is a possibility to reopen the contract and discuss a wage increase if positive financial progress is made.
“I want to thank the union and our coach operators for their willingness to work with us through these economic hardships and I look forward to continued collaboration,” said OCTA Chairman Jerry Amante, also the mayor of Tustin. “Our priorities have always been maximizing service, minimizing layoffs and reaching long-term sustainability and this contract helps us achieve all three.”
Members of Teamsters Local 952 voted over the weekend to approve the contract and the OCTA board voted to approve the contract at its meeting today.
“It’s important to develop collaboration with the Authority and the elected officials so that we can improve service, keep our members working and get those who are laid off back to work,” said Patrick D. Kelly, Secretary-Treasurer of Teamsters Local 952.
