Binghamton City Council members expressed strong concerns during a special business meeting on December 23, 2024, regarding a proposed contract that had not been ratified by union members. The council debated the implications of voting on a collective bargaining agreement (CBA) that lacked approval from the union, with several members arguing that proceeding without a vote from the union would undermine their representation and could be perceived as union busting.

Councilman Dunton emphasized the importance of union members having a say in the contract, stating, "It would be very wrong of us to vote on a contract that the members themselves did not vote on." He and other council members voiced their commitment to ensuring that the union members are not pressured into a decision, highlighting the need for due diligence in the voting process.

The council discussed the timeline and procedural aspects of the contract, noting that the current agreement was set to expire soon. However, they agreed that it was crucial to allow union members adequate time to review the proposed CBA before any vote. Council members expressed their intention to vote down the current proposal to protect the rights of the union members, ensuring they have the opportunity to review and vote on the agreement.

The meeting concluded with a consensus that the council would not approve the contract until it had been ratified by the union, reinforcing their role as representatives of the community and the importance of fair labor practices. This decision underscores the council's commitment to uphold the democratic process within labor negotiations and to support the rights of workers in Binghamton.