Service Employees International Union Local 32BJ announced a tentative contract agreement May 18 granting 26 percent in wage and benefit hikes over three years for Allied- Barton security guards at city government buildings, averting a threatened citywide strike.
The 1,100 officers, who work at Department of Citywide Administrative Services and Administration for Chil- dren's Services buildings as well as the Staten Island Ferry terminal, have been paid $11.50 per hour, a wage below that of their private-sector counterparts. The deal grants a new starting wage of $13, along with a 401(k), employer-paid family healthcare coverage, paid days off and advanced training for officers. Currently, the guards have a health-care discount program that deducts 8 to 10 percent off medical bills, according to the union. By the end of the three-year deal, hourly pay will be $14.35.
Wouldn't Violate Taylor Law
The AlliedBarton guards had authorized a strike earlier this month after contract negotiations came to a halt. The threatened work stoppage would not have violated the state's Taylor Law, as the officers are technically private-sector employees. The union also reached a similar deal with FJC, a company with guards at Human Resources Administration and Department of Homeless Services locations, although the union did not threaten a job action.
"For too long, private security officers were left behind in low-wage, dead-end jobs," Local 32BJ President Mike Fishman said in a statement. "The contracts we announced today show we are turning the corner in our campaign to raise standards and win respect for private security officers, not just in New York, but in all cities."
He continued, "The best outcome for workers, employers and the public is achieved when labor and management work together. AlliedBarton and FJC should be commended for working with 32BJ to professionalize the security industry so officers receive the pay they need to make ends meet and the training they need to provide first-rate security at city buildings."
