Anchorage optimistic about new contract for bus operators and garbage crews

Mayor Suzanne LaFrance's administration says it is optimistic about reaching a new contract with Teamsters Local 959, the union that represents the city's bus operators and garbage crews. Their current contract expires Dec. 31.

The administration's status report, filed under city code, goes to the Assembly on Wednesday, Nov. 4. It runs two paragraphs and does not say what the two sides are negotiating over.

The contract covers People Mover bus operators and Solid Waste Services workers, including sideloader and loadpacker operators, refuse repair technicians and swampers.

Under the current deal, base pay for a bus operator runs from $28.91 to $33.44 an hour this year. Base pay for a working refuse collection foreman tops out at $44.86. The contract gave raises of 3.3% in each of its four years, plus a one-time $600 payment.

The mayor's proposed 2027 budget keeps bus operator positions at 121. The city's transit advisory board has asked for five more, saying that even when fully staffed, the department runs short of operators when drivers are out sick or on leave.

In July, the administration sent the Assembly an amendment that would add paid parental leave to the Teamsters contract, citing a labor shortage and trouble recruiting and keeping workers.

The administration notified the Assembly of the talks in June, and bargaining began Aug. 17.

If no deal is reached by year's end, the current contract stays in force until a new one is reached and approved, or until all impasse procedures are completed, the administration said. Any new contract needs ratification by the union's members and approval by the Assembly.