By WMBD-TV
NORMAL – The clock is ticking for a national bus company to get a deal done that impacts bus drivers and bus monitors in Unit 5.
At the latest school board meeting, Steven Dean, vice-president for the union representing the bus drivers and bus monitors, gave an update on their contract negotiations with First Student.
During public comment portion of the meeting, he said they have gotten to the point where they feel like they aren’t getting anywhere and would be taking steps.
The contract ended July 31. According to Dean, the union started their process in January telling First Student they were ready to begin negotiations in April. He said First Student did not meet with them until June 20.
Dean also said there were five meetings in total with First Student asking for a 60-day extension at the conclusion of the last meeting held on July 31.
Dean shared conditions concerning paid time off is on the bargaining table.
“They want us to waive our rights to the Illinois state law that gives us a paid time off because we don’t have any benefits like that. They want us to waive our rights to that and submit a whole nother policy. And then that policy says they can change it or delete it at any time.”
First Student released the following statement:
Thank you for contacting us. First Student has been negotiating in good faith for months with AFSCME to reach a new contract agreement. The union represents drivers and monitors at our location in Normal, Illinois.
The company remains committed to reaching a mutually beneficial agreement with union leadership as soon as possible and looks forward to more bargaining sessions next week. We value our employees and want to provide them with wage increases and enhanced benefits.
During this process, First Student has shown a willingness to find common ground on terms for a new contract. We strongly encourage AFSCME to join us in finding a resolution that ensures the best possible outcome for our employees, students and the community.Jedd Biddinger, Communications Manager
It’s unclear what steps the bus drivers and monitors will take if they do not reach and agreement soon.
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