Philadelphia City Workers on Strike

Officials in Philadelphia are advising residents to stay on the line when calling 911 amidst a strike involving thousands of city employees.

“We will respond to those calls,” stated Philadelphia Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel.

About 10,000 workers, which include 911 operators and garbage collectors, have gone on strike after the city failed to adequately address their requests for better wages and pension benefits.

The District Council 33 (DC 33) announced the strike early Tuesday via Facebook, encouraging city workers to “hold the line.”

DC 33, Philadelphia’s largest blue-collar union, hasn’t experienced a strike since 1986, a time when residents dealt with significant garbage accumulation for weeks.

The union is pushing for a wage increase of 7% over three years, while the city has proposed an 8% increase over four years.

The strike is also impacting garbage collection services, as garbage collectors form a crucial part of DC 33.

“If this is how we need to get our point across, we’ll certainly let the garbage pile up to make sure the mayor understands we’re serious,” remarked DC 33 member Rhonada Jones.

Philadelphia Mayor Sherrel Parker indicated that a new plan for garbage collection is now in effect.

There are six recycling collection centers and 63 temporary drop-off locations set up throughout the city, allowing residents to dispose of trash on designated collection days.

Parker emphasized that the city intends to keep negotiating with the union, stating the city’s priority remains on delivering essential services.

“We will focus on providing the vital urban services our residents need,” Parker added. “Public health and safety remain our top concern.”

Residents are encouraged to keep their July 4th holiday plans intact, with Parker assuring them that celebrations can proceed as usual.