Around 1,700 Charter employees in New York and New Jersey walked off the job just about five months ago, saying the recent acquisition of Time Warner Cable has resulted in even worse benefits and working conditions. The workers, who range from warehouse employees and field techs to engineers, are members of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 3 -- and have been working for one version of the company or another without a contract since 2013.
The workers say that Charter Communications has been even more intractable in negotiations than Time Warner Cable was, resulting in a contract impasse that shows no sign of abating.
The New York Times this week ran an article highlighting the difficulties these striking workers face as these unproductive negotiations drag on.
“The strike has lasted longer than anybody could have imagined,” said one 48-year old employee. “Emotionally, dealing with the tumor and then this financially, it has been tough. I have a strong family that keeps me grounded.”
Charter customers haven't been
particularly impressed by the company post-merger either, noting higher prices but worse customer support. With Charter CEO Tom Rutledge the
highest paid American executive in any industry last year, and Charter imposing rate hikes upwards of 40% over Time Warner Cable pricing, both employees and customers alike are wondering when -- or even if -- any of this money will result in better pay, better benefits, better services, or lower prices.