GoBus operations are not expected to be affected by looming job action following a break-down in talks between the capital city and the union representing Metrobus operators.
The Amalgamated Transit Union is recommending that its 109 drivers reject the city’s latest offer, as the city grapples with a possible $13-million budget deficit.
Councillor Dave Lane, who sits on the Transportation Commission, says the city just doesn’t have the resources to increase benefits but believes there is some “wiggle room” in terms of other options.
He indicates “intense negotiations” are happening now in terms of the city budget. The city will be going to the public with what’s happening with the budget in the near future.
Ridership increased “significantly” in the year and a half leading up to COVID-19 according to Lane, and Metrobus is considered an essential service “in many ways” that requires subsidies.
He says GoBus is under a different contract and is not expected to be affected by possible Metrobus strike action.