LYNN — Union workers at the Veolia-operated wastewater treatment plant rallied Tuesday afternoon, as they kicked off contract negotiations with demands for cost-of-living raises, increased sick time, and a contract that reflects the essential nature of their work.
Members of IUE-CWA Local 201Union, who operate the city’s wastewater facility under Veolia, were joined by supporters from over a dozen labor unions, community organizations, and local officials. Workers emphasized that their roles are critical to public and environmental health, yet they face corporate resistance on basic benefits.
“We treat wastewater not just from Lynn, but from other communities,” said Jefferson Cruz Ruales, business agent for Local 201. “If this plant failed, we’d be dumping untreated water into the ocean.”
The 31 unionized employees at the plant handle physically demanding, high-risk work. Workers say new hires often fall ill in their first months on the job due to the nature of wastewater exposure, yet sick time remains limited.
“We’re not asking for anything egregious,” said Fred Hogan, Lynn city councilor, longtime union member, and chief steward at the plant. “We’re asking for wages that keep up with inflation and more sick days. Our people are certified, trained, and working in confined spaces every day.”
Hogan and others also described Veolia’s past instability, referencing the company’s acquisition of Suez and the disruption it caused to workers’ benefits.
“We were in a holding pattern for six months,” said Adam Kaszynski, president of Local 201. “Neither company would take responsibility. That’s what it’s like when 31 people in Lynn don’t matter to a multinational company.”
Support came from across the labor movement. Rodrigo Badaro, business representative for IUPAT District Council 35 and president of the North Shore Building Trades Council, pledged solidarity on behalf of 14 affiliate unions. He also shared his own experience working in wastewater.
“These are the people who make America run,” Badaro said. “If negotiations break down, we will stand with them.”
“We have 31 workers and a $2.7 million strike fund,” he added. “If Veolia wants to fight, they can find out. This is how we build a movement, and this is how we win.”
The rally was led in chants by Cohlette Carlino, Local 201’s Sergeant-at-Arms, and closed with a march down the Lynnway.
Negotiations officially began Wednesday. Cruz Ruales noted that if talks stall, the union may call on the Lynn Water & Sewer Commission, which oversees Veolia’s operating contract, to intervene.
“They’re responsible for the contract,” he said. “If we run into roadblocks, we’ll be reaching out.”
Veolia was contacted for comment but was unable to provide a statement by press time.
