Atlantic City casino workers approved on Thursday a July 1 strike against five of the city’s eight operational casinos if they are not provided with a fair contract.
Thousands of UNITE HERE Local 54 members cast their ballots on Thursday and 96% of all voters voted in favor of the proposed strike. The positive vote authorized a July 1 rally against Harrah’s, Caesars, Bally’s, and Tropicana. Such a strike has already been authorized against Trump Taj Mahal.
Reportedly, progress has been made in the negotiations between union members and the other three casinos operating in Atlantic City, with those being Golden Nugget, Resorts, and Borgata.
Talks about a potential strike are taking place at a time when Atlantic City has eventually started its revitalization from losing four casinos back in 2014. But although the financial results posted over the past several months showed an upward trend in casino revenue, the city’s overall economic situation is far from being what it should. Officials are looking for ways to close a $100-million budget gap and to prevent a state takeover.
What is more, the once-popular gambling destination may face another serious challenge. New Jersey lawmakers approved legislation for the establishment of two new casinos in the state’s northern part which may create a situation of serious in-state competition. The proposal is to be voted by New Jersey residents at the November 2016 ballot.
Commenting on the Thursday strike vote, UNITE HERE Local 54 President Bob McDevitt said that casino workers should be offered what they consider a fair contract now as the city’s gambling industry seems to be recovering, as they gave up a portion of their package back in 2011 in a bid to help struggling casinos.
Tropicana Entertainment President Tony Rodio said that the casino operator has invested a total of $160 million in Tropicana since 2011. Mr. Rodio further noted that while their employees have benefited from increased hours, gratuities, and job securities, others have lost their jobs at the four casinos that went bankrupt in 2014.
According to Mr. McDevitt only a day before the strike vote, Tropicana offered a five-year pay freeze, something the UNITE HERE Local 54 President deemed absolutely insulting.
As for the possibility for Atlantic City casino workers to walk out on July 1, right before the July 4 festivities, Caesars and Bally’s President Kevin Ortzman pointed out that their main goal will remain to agree on a fair resolution that will keep casino employees at work and will help Atlantic City revitalize.
