"We Want the Same Protections": TriMet Safety Staff Announce Union Effort

"TriMet has promoted the Safety Response Team (SRT) program as a model of a public safety program that doesn't rely on armed police and security guards. The program sends unarmed workers onto Portland's public transit system, expecting them to help de-escalate tense situations and increase an overall perception of safety on MAX trains and buses. Many of Segler's colleagues have expressed similar sentiments about their jobs."

"But they also describe working in an environment that can be hostile at times, without receiving fair compensation or adequate support from their bosses at the private security company Portland Patrol, Inc., which TriMet contracts with to run the program. Current and former program staff have deeply-held concerns about the program's ability to thrive under current conditions, which they say have perpetuated high worker turnover rates and resulted in vulnerable employees being taken advantage of."

Alison Segler has worked as a TriMet Safety Response Team staffer for nearly five years and expresses pride and gratitude for engaging with the community. TriMet promotes the SRT as an unarmed public safety model to de-escalate situations and increase perceived safety on MAX trains and buses. Colleagues report similar dedication but also describe hostile work environments, insufficient compensation, and inadequate support from their employer Portland Patrol, Inc., which TriMet contracts to run the program. Current and former staff cite high turnover and exploitation of vulnerable employees. Employees are organizing with SEIU Local 49 and seek TriMet leadership support to improve conditions and program stability.

Read at Portland Mercury