OH: Metro Union Employees Approve New Labor Contract

Feb. 10, 2014
On Feb. 7, the Amalgamated Transit Union Local 627 membership voted to approve a labor contract with Metro, effective Feb. 1, 2014 through Oct. 31, 2015.

On Feb. 7, the Amalgamated Transit Union Local 627 membership voted to approve a labor contract with Metro, effective Feb. 1, 2014 through Oct. 31, 2015.  The current contract expired at midnight on Jan. 31, 2014. 

The new contract also has been approved by the Southwest Ohio Regional Transit Authority board of trustees.

Approximately 660 Metro bus drivers, mechanics, and operations support employees are covered by this new contract, which establishes wages, benefits and work rules.  Major terms of the contract include:

Wages: 

  • 3 percent wage increase, effective March 2, 2014
  • 1 percent wage increase, effective March 29, 2015

Medical insurance:

  • PPO plan with United Healthcare (deductible: $700 individual/$1,400 family)
  • Employees pay 12 percent of premium costs in 2014
  • Biometric screening added to the wellness program

Balancing costs with employees' needs was the key to forging this mutually beneficial contract, according to Metro CEO and General Manager Terry Garcia Crews.  "Our mutual goal was to provide a fair, competitive and fiscally responsible package for our bargaining unit employees."

“Stability is important, and this is a fair contract for our members,” said Troy Miller, President of ATU Local 627.  “Our members serve the community well every day and deserve fair wages and benefits.”