Region of Queens offices. Photo: Evan Taylor.
The Region of Queens Municipality (RQM) has locked out its unionized public works employees following a strike initiated by members of IBEW Local 1928. The labor action began early this morning when union members set up picket lines near municipal buildings.
The lockout, effective immediately, suspends pay and restricts access to workspaces for the striking employees. Despite the lockout, benefits will continue uninterrupted as the union has agreed to reimburse RQM for both employer and employee benefit premiums.
RQM assured residents that all municipal services, including garbage collection, snow plowing, and utility bill payments, will continue without disruption. The municipality has asked residents to report any issues if they encounter picketers blocking access to municipal buildings by contacting the administration directly.
This escalation follows a breakdown in contract negotiations that had reached a standstill in December. The union, representing around 40 public works employees, had expressed dissatisfaction with the municipality’s latest offer, citing wage disparities, particularly for workers with Red Seal certifications, who earn less than their counterparts in other municipalities and the private sector.
Union business manager James Sponagle highlighted ongoing concerns about the treatment of temporary workers, who are not unionized but play a critical role in public works operations. The union had filed complaints with the labor board after the municipality indicated that these temporary workers might be asked to cross picket lines during the strike.
Despite the lockout, Sponagle reaffirmed the union’s willingness to return to the bargaining table, emphasizing the need for a meaningful offer to resolve the dispute. On the other side, Mayor Scott Christian in December expressed a desire to avoid further escalation and reach a fair agreement.
