DAVENPORT, Iowa — Union employees with Davenport Public Works, represented by Teamsters Local 238, are asking for higher wages as they head into contract negotiations with the city.
During a press conference held outside Davenport City Hall on Wednesday, Oct. 23, workers stressed the importance of wage increases to address low pay and understaffing. Public works employees are responsible for services like snow removal, flood mitigation, waste management and street maintenance, but many workers say they struggle to cover basic living expenses.
"How can we expect people to give their best effort on the job when they’re juggling two jobs just to survive?" Marvin Platt, a member of Teamsters Local 238 said.
The union is asking for wage adjustments, which they argue will make Davenport Public Works a more attractive place to work and improve the quality of services provided to the community.
The current contract ends in June of 2025, and union members are urging the city to engage in negotiations. Zach Peterson, business agent for Teamsters Local 238, emphasized that the work done by public employees is vital for the city.
"When we turn on the water tap and flush the toilet, that's not magic. That's hard work from our members," Peterson said.
With Davenport ranked as the fourth highest-paying city in Iowa for public works wages, behind Sioux City and Des Moines, the union is calling for a market adjustment in the first year of the new contract and annual raises thereafter.