Dracut Custodians Halt Privatization, Safeguard Union Jobs in MA

Community Efforts Halt Privatization of School Custodial Services in Dracut, Massachusetts

The Dracut School Committee recently voted against a proposal to privatize custodial services, a move that preserves the jobs of 22 union members from AFSCME Local 1404. This decision came after an extensive campaign by the union members to maintain their roles within the school system.

Chad Adamczyk, President of Local 1404, expressed gratitude for the support received, stating, “We just kept fighting for our rights, and thanks to Council 93 for all their help and guidance every step of the way, we are able to say that we came out on top.”

Over the past few months, Local 1404, supported by Council 93, engaged in a proactive effort to oppose the privatization initiative. Union members actively participated in school committee meetings, town elections, and used social media to educate the community on the importance of retaining in-house custodial services.

The campaign's effectiveness was evident through significant community engagement, including hundreds of emails sent to school committee members and a petition signed by 85 local residents. Their efforts highlighted the consequences of outsourcing jobs, such as reduced service standards and increased taxpayer costs over time.

Beyond job retention, union members emphasized the value of continuity and trust that long-term employees bring to the school environment. Standout demonstrations and voter engagement activities, conducted even in harsh weather conditions, underscored the union's commitment.

Council 93 Executive Director Mark Bernard acknowledged the custodians' dedication, noting, “The custodians themselves played the most important role simply by quietly doing their jobs so well over many years before this fight. Because of their dedication and hard work throughout their careers, the Dracut community joined us in the fight.”

The collective efforts culminated in a unanimous 5-0 vote by the school committee on March 23, marking a significant victory for the union and its members. Bernard further commented, “Despite the uncertainty they dealt with as their livelihoods were on the line, they proudly continued to show that same strong work ethic throughout the fight. When we fight, we win.”

For more information on AFSCME Council 93's activities, visit their website.