We Formed a Union in New York So That We Have a Voice When Decisions Are Made
Our cable system in Utica, New York, was purchased by Adelphia three years ago. Since then, we negotiated one contract and just completed negotiations on our second collective bargaining agreement with Adelphia management.
As a cable TV technician and also the president of CWA Local 1126, I have seen a lot of changes and consolidation in our industry. Working for a family-owned provider like Harron for 31 years is not that much different than working for Adelphia. You have to deal well with the customers, and you have to keep the system running so that it gives consumers the service that they are paying for.
It is especially important to have union representation when your industry is constantly changing. When Adelphia bought our system three years ago, management wanted to change everything; to make it "the Adelphia way." Because we have union representation, the company could not dictate terms. They had to talk to negotiate and reach an agreement with us before any changes were made. Because I was elected president of our local, Adelphia had to talk with me.
We just finished bargaining our second contract with Adelphia management and we are continuing to deal with the issues that are important to employees as well as management. By bargaining over the changes, long-term employees are able to have their contributions to our company and its success respected and recognized. Commitments made years ago are not just discarded like the logo of the old company.
Whatever changes that occur because of our company's current financial crisis, we know that we will be part of the discussion -- our concerns will be raised during the discussions and they will be addressed by the company.
Adelphia cable workers at Utica, NY, voted to approve a 3-year agreement. The contract with Adelphia provides employment security for CSSRs, strengthens protections against sub-contracting, increases the employer's 401(k) contribution, increases wages for the CSSRs and Head-End technicians, adds a new short-term disability plan, and guarantees annual wage increases for all employees. Past practices relating to the assignment of geographic area, assigned duties, and courtesy cable have been added to the contract.
Adelphia workers in Cheektowaga, NY, and State College, PA, are currently negotiating on their first contract with Adelphia management.
