LA City Council urges building owners to negotiate wage increases for janitors

Los Angeles City Council members took decisive action during their recent meeting, addressing the urgent needs of the city’s janitorial workforce. The council unanimously approved a resolution aimed at supporting 8,500 janitors whose contract with local employers is set to expire on March 31. This resolution comes in response to stalled negotiations that could lead to a strike, as contractors have proposed a wage freeze for the next five years.

Councilmember Goldberg emphasized the critical nature of the situation, highlighting that many janitors live below the federal poverty line despite the booming real estate market in Los Angeles. The council's resolution encourages building owners and janitorial contractors to reach a fair agreement that would provide wage increases and improve working conditions for these essential workers.

Public testimony from union representatives and janitors underscored the dire circumstances faced by many in the industry. Janitor Maria Cuevas shared her personal struggles as a single mother and the challenges her colleagues face, including intimidation tactics from contractors. She called for support from the council to ensure that janitors can negotiate for better wages and benefits.

The council's actions reflect a growing recognition of the importance of fair labor practices and the need to address income inequality in Los Angeles. As the city moves forward, the resolution serves as a call to action for all stakeholders to prioritize the well-being of the janitorial workforce, ensuring they receive the respect and compensation they deserve.