The union representing PECO workers has officially gone on strike. Léelo en español aquí The strike began at 12:01 a.m. on July 4th after PECO and IBEW Local 614 were unable to come to an agreement during their months-long contract negotiations.  IBEW Local 614 president Larry Anastasi explained that there had been little progress to reach an agreement with PECO.  A legal representative for the union said that both sides had been participating in marathon bargaining sessions but the union has not received a wage proposal from PECO since May.  “It’s a shame,” Anastasi said. “I don’t think it’s too much to ask to have the same benefits as everyone else.” In a statement shared by PECO on Friday night, they said, “We have already presented a strong, market-competitive proposal that includes nearly a 20 percent wage increase over five years, along with significantly enhanced retirement and medical benefits that address the union’s long-standing priorities – while meeting the needs of our customers. A federal mediator has been assigned to help facilitate discussions, and we have encouraged using that process to move negotiations forward to help reach a fair and equitable agreement; however, the union has not agreed to participate.” The union represents PECO’s linemen, gas technicians, mechanics, call center workers and back office workers. As a result of this impending strike, roughly 1,600 PECO workers responsible for maintaining gas and electric systems are stepping away from their positions.  The union said that PECO was not offering serious counterproposals to their proposals, despite the months-long negotiations. In response to the union’s statements, PECO said it did provide a fair package to IBEW with raises and benefits. The strike comes two days after Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker sent a letter to PECO and IBEW urging them to come to an agreement. Philadelphia Jul 1 Letter from Philly mayor urges PECO and union to avoid strike before July 4 Economy Jun 24 PECO union will strike on July 4, three months after contract expired Energy May 31 PECO rates increase around 3.1%, officials say ...read more read less