ITHACA, NY (607NewsNow) — There’s progress in contract talks between TCAT and the United Auto Workers union.

According to a statement from UAW Local 2300, management at the transit agency recently passed two proposals that reflect union priorities but both sides remain at odds over money. The union is pushing for fair wages and better staffing levels. A rally was held outside TCAT’s headquarters last Friday, and another is planned for later today during the TCAT Board of Directors meeting.

TCAT General Manager Matthew Rosenbloom-Jones tells WHCU about the status on contract talks and outlined current proposals on the table.

“TCAT is continuing to negotiate with the UAW on a new contract that will provide record wage growth in an era of growing uncertainty for public transit funding.  Currently, our proposal to the UAW would put the starting wage for a bus operator at $26.94/hr, the highest of any upstate public transit system.  Mechanics would see their starting wage increase to $28.25/hr, the second highest for an upstate public transit system.  Progression to top wage rate has been shortened from ten years to three, and top rates would be at or above the top rates of every other public transit system in upstate New York.  Additionally, our proposal introduces longevity pay premiums starting at 10 years of service, record high shoe and tool allowances as well as training and night work rates that are drastically higher than industry standard.  This combination of record high wages and premiums would make TCAT operators, mechanics, custodians and bus handlers the most well compensated in upstate New York and would establish TCAT is a premier employer in the industry.”

“We will continue to meet with the UAW as many times as necessary to complete negotiations and offer a strong contract to our represented employees that also ensures the long-term financial viability of TCAT for many years to come.”

The two sides return to the bargaining table today, Feb. 27.