Strike tensions escalate, negotiations resume between DC 33 and City of Philadelphia

PHILADELPHIA (WPHL) — On day two of the District Council 33 strike, Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker announced that both parties returned to the negotiation table Wednesday afternoon. However, city officials warned DC 33 members on the picket lines that harassment and vandalism must come to an end, as tensions escalate.

During a Wednesday press conference, Mayor Parker said that the city remains committed to reaching a “fair and fiscally responsible contract” for the city’s largest blue collar union, while keeping public health and safety a top priority.

On Tuesday, a judge ordered 911 operators and essential water department employees to return to work. Wednesday afternoon, District Council 33 released a statement urging immediate compliance to avoid legal consequences and adhere to all of the court-ordered rules, including picketing guidelines.

City Solicitor Renee Garcia said on Wednesday that the city has received various reports of non-compliance with the judge’s orders, in addition to harassment allegations. Garcia said that people have been interfering with water department operations, residents have been harassed while dropping off trash, and doctors have been locked out of health centers by striking members.

Philadelphia Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel warned of consequences for vandalism and other illegal activity. Tuesday morning, police announced the arrest of a man accused of asking a Philadelphia Gas Works employee why they weren’t striking, and then slashing a PGW vehicle’s tire.

City officials are also urging residents to follow the city’s guidelines for trash and recycling during the work stoppage, which includes utilizing the drop-off locations and not placing any trash on the curb.

Wednesday afternoon, Mayor Cherelle Parker reaffirmed that Friday’s Independence Day celebrations are still on. Parker said that the city is using every resource available to get through the “challenging time” while they remain in negotiations with DC 33.

The 9,000 members of DC 33 are responsible for essential city services, including 911 dispatchers, street repairs, trash collection, airport workers, school crossing guards, and more.

District Council 33 has been on strike since 12:01 a.m. Tuesday.