(GUILDERLAND, NEW YORK) — A multi-month effort by Town of Guilderland Highway Workers to organize a Union with the Civil Service Employees Association (CSEA) is complete following a vote by the Guilderland Town Board to voluntarily recognize CSEA as the Workers’ exclusive Bargaining Representative.

The group, which comprises 40 Operators, Laborers and Mechanics, requested voluntary recognition to management in early April after the majority of the Bargaining Unit signed Authorization Cards selecting CSEA to represent them.

Workers stated throughout the campaign they want a voice in working conditions, as well as a workplace climate that treats Employees with dignity and respect.

“We finally have a real voice on the job,” said Kyle Van Patten, an Operator 3. “This is about standing together to make sure we’re treated fairly, whether it’s wages, safety, equipment, seniority or scheduling. It means we have the power to negotiate to make things fair for everyone. The work we do in our town is important and now, as a Union, we have the strength to make sure we are heard and treated with dignity and respect.” 

“Winning our Union is an important step towards equality in the workplace,” said Johnny Boyer, a Laborer. “As CSEA Members, our voice will no longer be meaningless. This is a proud moment for me, my family and all of us in the Highway Department.”

CSEA Capital Region President Shana Davis said: “CSEA welcomes the Guilderland Highway Workers to the CSEA Family. Their work deserves the dignity, respect and protections that only a strong Union agreement can provide. We stand in full support of the Guilderland Highway Members as they push forward on their first Union contract.”

To Directly Access This Labor News Report, Go To: Guilderland highway workers form union with CSEA - CSEA NY