CivicServiceUnion52

The City of Edmonton and approximately 6000 workers have come to an impasse. The workers say have not had a raise in years and City negotiators are driving a hard bargain because of a burgeoning budget and tax burden.

When I read the article below I was enlightened as to how a strike of these city workers would affect the city, with huge implications for all.

The City of Edmonton and its more than 6,000 city workers who are members of Civic Service Union 52 have come to an impasse in their contract negotiations. City workers have not had a wage increase in the last five years so after the mandatory 14 day cooling off period the workers voted overwhelmingly in favour of strike action. In response the City has offered workers a 7.25 per-cent wage increase and a commitment to hybrid work which they believe is a fair and equitable offer. The City has applied to the labour board for approval of a lockout which would dramatically affect many city departments and functions.

CSU 52 workers represent employees in places like Capital Power, Edmonton Public Library, EPCOR, Telus World of Science, rec centres, IT, 911 operators, permit processors and most other city services. A strike by CSU 52 members would have a huge impact on city services.

Lanny Chudyk who is CSU 52 president said his members have not had a wage increase in five years. After three days of mediation the union said it’s currently without a deal and the city’s team did not come to the table with the ability to negotiate a deal for City of Edmonton employees.