Malden City Council backs resolution to stop privatization of school custodians' jobs

The Malden City Council unanimously voted in favor of a 'resolve' that the jobs of "janitors and cafeteria workers not be privatized."  The measure was sponsored by Councillors Neil Kinnon and Barbara Murphy.  The vote took place on May 6. 

Councillor Kinnon said, "Only two out of 35 Malden School Department employees who make over $100,000 actually live in the city.  I find it disturbing in light of the fact that over the last few years significant money has been given to the School Department.  I have faith that those in the School Department can do the right thing. 

"In the School Department, if you look at what has happened over the last twenty years -- and especially over the last ten years -- there has been a real acceleration of administrative salaries.  Far more than inflation.  As much as eight percent.

"Now we're going to layoff custodians?  The majority of those people live in this community.  The majority getting the big raises are the ones who are moneyed and don't live in this community. We should never be laying off people who have families and need to put food on the table.  We should take care of those who live with us and among us first."

Video of the council members' discussion and vote on the resolve can be seen online at: http://cityofmalden.granicus.com/MediaPlayer.php?view_id=2&clip_id=18&me...

"While the resolve passed by the Malden City Council is nonbinding, this sends a clear message to the Mayor and the School Committee that outsourcing the custodian's jobs is wrong and not in the best interest of the city or the community," said Mark DelloRusso, President of Local 888.