Saratoga Springs Councilmembers Express Support for Unionization of Stable Workers

SARATOGA SPRINGS —The city of Saratoga Springs released an official statement noting councilmembers support in the unionization efforts of backstretch workers.

Recently a significant number of backstretch workers have asked organizers for the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 1430 (IBEW) to help them improve their work life. The City Council strongly supports this organizing effort and encourages stable workers to unionize, according to the statement, released Sept. 18. 

 “We believe all workers should have a voice. A well-represented workforce on the backstretch would be an asset to Thoroughbred racing in Saratoga Springs, which is a key economic pillar to our city,” Commissioner of Finance Minita Sanghvi said.

The IBEW has been listening to employees of the trainers and backstretch enterprises and is seeking recognition that would lead to union representation of that workforce. The City Council explained it expects that both the workers and the union will be afforded every right of access allowed under law and is open to discuss improvement with appropriate leaders of NYRA.

“I support the effort by the backstretch workers to see collective bargaining status and I hope NYRA, stable owners, and fellow NYRA unionized employees will make every effort to allow the backstretch workers to decide their own destiny,” said city Mayor Ron Kim.