Lincoln Park Zoo Workers Approve New Contract

SEIU Local 73 members at Lincoln Park Zoo have overwhelmingly approved their new contract.

“I have participated in several contract negotiations and none of them are perfect, but every single one of them is better than before and improve our work environment,” said Diana Villafuerte, animal keeper, bargaining team member, and steward. “We are union strong!”

The five year contract will keep health and dental benefits the same, along with wage increases for workers, and wage reopeners in 2023, 2024, and 2025.

“Being a part of bargaining has been a great learning experience,” said Brittany Childs, animal keeper and bargaining team member. “It’s wonderful to be a part of the conversation and the positive change for all of our members.”

Also included in the contract is the requirement for the Society to review and update job descriptions for the positions of Cleaning Fanatics, Lead Cleaning Fanatics, Lead Facilities, Facilities, Assistant Keeper, Keeper, Assistant Lead Keeper, Lead Keeper, Vet Tech, and all other job titles. The society will discuss such revisions with the Union prior to implementing the revised descriptions.

New to this contract is the creation of a Nutrition Technician Certification program that will allow Nutrition Technicians to attain an Advanced Certification. Additionally, cleaning fanatics have been moved to 40 hours.

“Having a union is what gives our members the strength to negotiate strong contracts like this,” said Dian Palmer, President of Local 73. “To keep the advantages we have with our union we have to stand together. That is how we will stay strong.”