MCTS, ATU Local 998 reach agreement on new 3-year contract
MILWAUKEE -- Milwaukee County Transit System (MCTS) and Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 998, the union that represents MCTS bus drivers and mechanics, reached an agreement on a new contract on Friday, Nov. 15.
The agreement, which was ratified by union members is for a three-year contract that includes salary increases, signing bonuses and a generous healthcare plan.
Dan Boehm, MCTS President and Managing Director issued the following statement in a news release:
"We acknowledge that this has been a long process and we thank our dedicated employees for being patient while we worked out a deal. We are pleased that we’re now able to move forward and give workers a much-deserved raise.
"The men and women of MCTS and ATU Local 998 all share a passion for public transportation. This milestone allows us to come together to do what we do best – connect people in our community to work, school and life.
"We encourage anyone who supports transit to speak up on the need for a long-term funding solution. Please contact business leaders and elected officials to tell them how important public transportation is to you, your family and your neighbors."
FOX6 News spoke with James Macon, president of the bus drivers union late Friday. He indicated while a lot was accomplished between the two sides, he says security remains an issue for him and the drivers.
"It's a slim victory for this company. The fight is not over with," Macon said. "The next county executive will not get our support unless they support public transportation."