While some students struggle to find a parking space Tuesday mornings in the parking garage at Sinclair, many rely on public transportation. The Dayton RTA has served as an affordable option for student transportation from the greater Dayton area for many years.
As of Sunday November 13, the Amalgamated Transit Union Local 1385 approved measures for a strike. Executive Director of Dayton RTA, Mark Donaghy, said the implications of the strike would likely shut the entire service down.
During the holiday season, where many part time jobs and overtime opportunities are available in the Dayton area, the lack of public transportation could pose great consequences to business and individuals alike.
By law, the Union must provide Dayton RTA with ten days of notice before going on strike.
The primary reason for the proposed strike is health care. In 2015, the Collective Bargaining agreement expired. Changes were then made to the employee healthcare plan that were “significantly more expensive without input from the union or its members,” according to Local 1385 President, Glenn Slayer.
Other grievances expressed by some Dayton RTA workers included the lack of break times and lack of pay increases.
Donaghy said during a press conference on November 15 that he believes an agreement can be reached. In a worst case scenario, Donaghy said that services would be consolidated and prioritized to continue the services the Dayton RTA offers for those with disabilities.
The Dayton RTA is often present during Welcome Week where they reach out to Sinclair students. At times, even promotional week passes have been given to ease students into their first week of classes.
A decision is expected to come toward the end of the month.
Barton Kleen
Executive Editor