Austin transit union says contract talks remain at stalemate as strike remains possible

Union leaders and transit workers called for a fair contract during Monday’s CapMetro board meeting.

AUSTIN, Texas — Contract negotiations between Austin’s transit workers union and CapMetro contractor Keolis remain at a standstill, leaving the possibility of a transit strike on the table, union leaders said on Monday.

Members of Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 1091 rallied outside CapMetro headquarters before speaking during the agency’s board meeting, urging officials to help secure what they describe as a fair contract for bus operators and maintenance workers employed by Keolis.

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The union previously rejected what Keolis called its “best and final offer” in June and authorized a strike, though no strike has been called. Union President Brent Payne said workers hope to avoid a work stoppage but warned they are prepared to take that step if negotiations do not improve.

Union leaders said more than 75% of CapMetro/Keolis workers cannot afford to live in Austin. Workers are seeking regular wage increases, better training and more adequate paid time off.

“We’re down to about 11 open articles, but we’re not done,” Payne said, adding that no additional bargaining sessions are currently scheduled. He said the union remains willing to return to the negotiating table.

Some CapMetro riders said they depend on public transit every day and worry about what a strike could mean.

Albert Slaughter, who rides the bus several times a week as his primary form of transportation, said public transit is essential for many Austinites.

“Everybody don’t have cars and vehicles,” Slaughter said on Monday, speaking to KVUE while waiting at an East Austin bus stop. “So it’s very important.”

Slaughter also said he believes bus operators deserve higher pay and hopes both sides can reach an agreement.

CapMetro referred KVUE to a July memo provided to its board outlining Keolis’ latest proposal.

According to the contractor, its most recent offer includes a total compensation package that exceeds the union’s request.

In a statement to KVUE, a Keolis spokesperson said the company remains committed to reaching a fair agreement through collective bargaining and is negotiating in good faith with the union. 

The spokesperson added, “We have made meaningful progress during negotiations with proposals that reflect a significant investment in our workforce and address the priorities raised by the union. In addition to the collective bargaining process, Keolis, CapMetro and ATU are actively collaborating to continuously strengthen safety and training.”

While union members have authorized a strike, Payne said no deadlines have been established and discussions about future negotiations are continuing.

“This is serious,” Payne said, noting a work stoppage could affect students returning to school, University of Texas riders and others who rely on CapMetro services.

For now, both the union and Keolis say they remain open to further negotiations in hopes of reaching an agreement without disrupting transit service.