Montebello Transit Wins Longevity Pay, Wage Gains

With a 90% approval rate, the members of SMART-TD Local 1701 (Montebello, CA) have ratified a new contract.  
 
Most notably, the agreement includes a significant pay increase over the next three years, including additional longevity pay after seven years of service.  
 
“I would like to thank my members for their patience and support and believing in us in our work to bring them the best contract possible,” said Cecilia Lopez, general chairperson of General Committee of Adjustment Montebello (876). “We were able to agree to…longevity at the completion of the seventh year of full-time service. We were very fortunate to have it start at seven years.”  
 
The longevity pay is a rare benefit and a victory for the negotiating team. Local 1701 represents Montebello Transit bus operators, mechanics, body shop, storekeepers, and service workers. Lopez noted that this was the second contract negotiated by GCA 876 Local 1701. 
 
“This second contract is a result and a testament to our working relationship with the City Council, City Manager, and Director of Transportation,” explained GC Lopez. “This is unprecedented to have all of them on our side working with us. [We’d] like to thank them all for their support, dedication, and commitment to moving forward in the right direction.”  

Close Collaboration Drives Results 

GC Lopez had specific praise for James Sandoval, Vice President of the SMART-TD Bus Department. 
 
“[VP Sandoval] was fantastic and was here every step of the way and was beyond supportive,” said GC Lopez.  
 
The feeling is mutual.  
 
“Sister Lopez is never afraid to stand up for our members and fight for what’s right,” said VP Sandoval. “For a second time, she has shown that working productively with city leaders while holding firm to members’ needs can result in a strong agreement with tangible, long-term gains, and I’m very proud of both Sister Lopez and GCA 876 Local 1701. This latest win for SMART-TD’s Bus Department proves that we’ve got growing momentum on our side and have no plans to slow down!” 

Congratulations to GC Lopez and our Local 1701 brothers and sisters on this victory!