A group of seventeen mechanics at MV Transportation are seeking to become members of Teamsters Local 117. On Monday, July 20, workers declared majority status in favor of Local 117 acting as their exclusive bargaining representative, and they called on their employer to recognize the Union. MV Transportation has not yet responded to the workers' demand.

The workers cited the need for higher wages, secure staffing, safe working conditions, and respect on the job as reasons for becoming Teamsters. Once recognized by their employer, they would join 330 unionized drivers, schedulers, and transit instructors at MV Transportation who perform paratransit services in King County.

“It’s not fair that we go years without a raise, especially when we are told over and over that we will receive one. Our low wages are a big reason why we are so understaffed,” said Michael Glass, a technician who has been with the company for seventeen years. “Becoming Teamsters is necessary to make actual improvements in our workplace so we can get better treatment.” 

Mechanics at MV Transportation repair and maintain the vehicles that the company uses to transport elderly and disabled residents across King County to their medical and other appointments. 

“These workers perform essential services that benefit some of the most vulnerable residents of King County, but they are currently overworked, understaffed, and underpaid” said Paul Dascher, Secretary-Treasurer of Teamsters Local 117. “I am excited to work with them to negotiate strong contractual protections with provisions like annual wage increases, improved benefits, and fair working conditions. We will make sure MV Transportation appropriately recognizes the contributions they make to our community.”