University Times

Pitt custodians, grounds-keepers and food service workers represented by Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Local 29 voted 203-108 last week to reject a contract that University and union negotiators had tentatively agreed on in October.

"At this point, we're going to get input from our members on what they didn't like about the proposed contract and what they want in a new contract," said Local 29 business agent Nelson Bryant. "Then we're going back to the bargaining table to try and get a decent contract." Union officials agreed to tell Pitt's administration by Nov. 26 when they will be ready to resume negotiations.

Pitt SEIU members have been working on a series of contract extensions since their last contract with the University expired Dec. 31, 1995. The latest contract extension expires Dec. 15.