Montgomery Bus Drivers, Aides and Dispatchers Form Independent Union, Break from CWA
Staff
Montgomery, N.J. — In a significant move toward self-representation, the Montgomery Township School District’s bus drivers, aides, and dispatchers have voted to form their own independent bargaining unit, separating from their previous union, Communications Workers of America (CWA) Local 1040.
On June 15, the transportation staff met and voted unanimously to pursue disaffiliation from the CWA, citing dissatisfaction with their representation. The very next day, June 16, a formal petition was filed with the New Jersey Public Employment Relations Commission (PERC) to establish a new, independent union: Wheels of Change – Montgomery Safe Passage Association.
The initiative was led by longtime shop stewards Cathy Franzoso and Nicholas Mistretta, who described the decision as both bold and deeply considered.
“This is not something we did lightly,” said Mistretta. “It’s a decision rooted in trust—with one another and with the district. We have great facilities. The district has been a good employer. But CWA never truly understood the work we do.”
Mistretta was quick to credit his co-leader for her expertise and partnership. “Cathy and I worked perfectly together on this. We’ve been partners here for years, she’s a smart cookie and knows transportation like the back of her hand. Not saying there weren’t stressful times—but this was a solid, united, committed effort. We never worked better together than we did over the past two months.”
The road to independence began with the collection of majority support through signed authorization cards. The process triggered a challenge from CWA, which led the state to initiate a formal secret-ballot election among the transportation staff. Before that vote could conclude, however, CWA withdrew its interest, effectively ending its claim to represent the unit and clearing the way for the new union to move forward.
Mistretta noted the importance of learning from others. “We had some guidance from the Roxbury School District, which had gone through this process with their union. It was incredibly helpful.”
He also added, “I would be remiss if I didn’t mention driver Gigi Sala in all of this. Gigi is the one who learned of the Roxbury situation and got this all rolling. Without her, we might not have even known this was possible.”
The creation of Wheels of Change represents a landmark shift in local labor dynamics and may be viewed as a potential model for similar groups statewide.
“We’re in control of our own affairs now,” Mistretta said. “Everyone has a say. This is huge in terms of labor-management relations, and we’re looking forward to doing some really great things for our members, community, and especially our students.”
He emphasized that the journey is only beginning. “The nonprofit entity needs to be formed, we need to elect officers, establish committees—there’s a lot to do. But this is very exciting. We have some great ideas and big plans. Our members have talent, and they’re ready to get involved.”
District officials have not yet commented publicly on the transition, but sources close to the administration indicated that the process has been cooperative and respectful on all sides.
The newly formed Wheels of Change bargaining unit is expected to resume contract negotiations with the district later this year.
Photo Credit: Nicholas Mistretta/headlinenewsmontgomery.com