Carriers for Davenport Workers Say Action ‘Imminent’

DAVENPORT, Iowa (KWQC) – Teamsters representing city workers say they will take action if nothing changes in negotiations.

Zach Peterson of Teamsters Local 238 said they are considering rallies and picketing to get the public’s attention.

Peterson said the city is offering public works employees a 1.5% raise in the first year of a new contract and a 1.25% raise for the following three years.

He said their pay hasn’t kept pace with inflation.

Peterson said they were disappointed that council members did not attend the bargaining sessions on Monday and Tuesday, only the city council.

“We had a general commitment from a number of city councilors that they would attend at least some bargaining sessions,” Peterson said. “And specifically, Mike Matson made that commitment when he sought our support for re-election in his final term.

“And then when we went to the table on Monday and Tuesday there was no one in sight, which was beyond frustrating and disappointing.”

City Manager Doug Maxeiner says Davenport is committed to negotiating in good faith.

“We look forward to the next opportunity to continue the conversation.”

Teamster negotiators will meet again on Friday.

Copyright 2024 KWQC. All rights reserved.