Brookline, MA – In a resounding victory, AFSCME Local 1358 members successfully thwarted the Brookline School Committee’s efforts to privatize nearly 100 jobs, ensuring that dedicated school custodians and food service employees remain public employees. The victory, achieved through a strong coalition of labor unions, community support, and direct worker action, highlights the power of AFSCME Council 93 in standing up for essential public services.
The committee’s plan would have partially outsourced custodial and food services jobs to private contractors in an attempt to close a budget deficit. Council 93 presented evidence that any savings would be temporary at best, while disrupting the lives of dozens of workers, diminished service quality, and loss of trust that the members of Local 1358 provide the Brookline School community.
The proposed privatization effort threatened the livelihoods of long-time employees, many of whom have deep roots in the community. Jim Mellett, Vice President of Local 1358 and a school custodian since 1988, was one of the key voices in the fight. “I’ve always tried to make whichever building I’m working at better than it was yesterday,” he said. “You won’t get that from a private contractor.”
When news of the proposed cuts broke in late February, Local 1358 quickly jumped into action enlisting Council 93’s Membership Mobilization, Political and Legislative, and Field Services Departments for assistance and expertise in countering the School Committee’s proposed cuts. In a flurry of activity over a few short weeks Local 1358 members, other Locals, Council 93 staff, and union and community supporters were a constant presence at School Committee meetings speaking out to mobilize and educate the community on the pitfalls of privatization. A robust outreach campaign generated hundreds of emails, letters, and calls to the School Committee in support of the workers.
“Spreading the word and getting the public involved in the process, along with support from other unions, really made the difference,” Mellett explained. “But what put it over the top was workers showing up to fight for their jobs—adding a human element.”
The efforts paid off when the Brookline School Committee voted unanimously on March 13th to keep food services in house and in another unanimous vote on March 20th to maintain custodial services.
That human element resonated deeply with Brookline residents, parents, and students who rely on these workers every day. Mona Saltalamacchia, Local 1358 President, Council 93 Executive Board Member, and a longtime school department employee, emphasized the importance of grassroots organizing. “I don’t think we would be in the position we are today without the help of Local 1358 members from departments across Brookline, Council 93 Locals, other unions, and the Brookline families.”
Heather DeLuca, Recording Secretary for Local 1358 and a 25-year veteran of Brookline’s Public Works Department, echoed that sentiment. “Many times, these workers are overlooked—you need to show how important these jobs are to the fabric of the community,” she said. “Our community saw past the marginal savings and recognized the benefit of keeping their trusted public employees.” DeLuca noted that one of the most compelling factors in stopping privatization was hearing directly from the teachers, students, and other school staff who depend on them. “Schools are unique in that these workers are in the everyday lives of the school community, many times for years. Teachers, parents, and students spoke up about how much they cherish this staff.”
As public sector unions will undoubtedly continue to face threats of privatization, Local 1358’s victory in Brookline serves as an inspiring example of what can be accomplished through solidarity and strategic action.
Mellett’s advice for other Locals facing similar challenges “You don’t have to go through this alone. Don’t be afraid to ask for help and keep fighting.”
Saltalamacchia summed up the fight with a clear message- “We are all in this together.”
