SEIU Local 888, which represents public service workers, has officially endorsed Katjana Ballantyne for a third term as Mayor of Somerville.
In its endorsement, SEIU Local 888 praised Mayor Katjana’s leadership in achieving pay equity for the city’s 911 Emergency Dispatchers and Telecommunicators - a department made up predominantly of women who, for years, were paid significantly less than their male counterparts in the Fire Alarm Division despite performing the same work. Mayor Katjana reviewed and negotiated a landmark agreement to deliver equal pay for equal work, with a historic 14-17% raise, correcting longstanding wage injustice.
“In these times, we need a leader who demonstrates thoughtful and equitable change. That leader is Mayor Katjana Ballantyne” said Thomas McKeever, President of SEIU Local 888. “We look forward to seeing Somerville grow in every possible aspect under her continued leadership.”
“I’m proud to be endorsed by SEIU Local 888. It has been my mission to bring equity to Somerville and we have accomplished pay equality,” said Ballantyne. “Our city workers deserve fair, equitable pay and I consider this one of my major accomplishments.”
