Members of Philadelphia’s largest blue-collar union, which represents 9,000 city employees, are planning to go on strike.

AFSCME District Council 33, the union which represents workers employed in city functions such as sanitation, the water department, police dispatch, street maintenance and the airport, is set to walk off the job on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, after the union stated that it has been negotiating with the city for several months and has been unable to reach an agreement.

Union leaders said they want more money, better job security, and more substantial health benefits for all of their members.

Members voted to authorize a strike back on June 12.

In a social media post on Friday, June 28, 2025, District Council 33 stated that they were unable to reach an agreement after the negotiation session with the city.

“No deal!

We regret to inform you that we were unable to reach an agreement during today’s marathon negotiating session. The city administration remains firm on its stance and is still unwilling to present a financial offer that meets our expectations and is acceptable to you, our valued members. While there were minor agreements made on less significant issues, the key items that are of utmost importance to you and your families were not adequately addressed.

Despite our best efforts to advocate on your behalf, the lack of progress on critical matters such as fair wages and comprehensive healthcare benefits remains a significant concern. These issues are at the core of our negotiations, and we are committed to ensuring they are not overlooked.

That said, we are moving forward with our plans for Monday’s rally and expect to be on strike at 12:01 a.m. Tuesday morning.

We appreciate your patience and unwavering support during this challenging period. Together, we will strive to achieve a fair and equitable agreement that honors your contributions and secures a brighter future for everyone involved. In solidarity!”

In response, Mayor Cherelle Parker has proposed a pay raise of “more than 12% in one term,” the largest offer to District Council 33 in over 30 years.

“Philadelphia’s public workers are the heartbeat of our city—the ones who clean our streets, care for our children, and keep our water systems running, among many tasks.

That’s why my Administration has put forward the largest pay increase proposal for District Council 33 over one term of any mayor in more than 30 years— more than 12% in one term.

As a pro-Labor, pro-Union, pro-Worker Mayor, I will always fight for those who serve this city—and I will do so with fiscal responsibility.

We can reach a fair deal.”

The last time the union went on strike was back in 1986. Philadelphia residents said that tens of thousands of pounds of garbage had piled up on city streets for a week.