By Steve Klamkin WPRO News
A 3 1/2 hour meeting of the union representing striking Providence school bus drivers and the bus company ended on a hopeful note, with the two sides saying they made progress in resolving their dispute, which began more than a week ago.
“I can tell you, the brass tacks… the strike is going to continue tomorrow,” said Nick Williams, Business Agent for Teamsters union Local 251 after the session, held under the auspices of a federal mediator.
“We came a little closer today. Both sides have a lot to look into, and I’m looking forward to getting back together.”
“We have a couple of things that we’re waiting on from the city. One of them being the school committee meeting that will be happening tomorrow. We’re definitely going to be present for that to see what direction the city is looking at.” He would not be more specific about what the Providence School Board might be considering.
“We’ve had a good, productive meeting with the union,” said Frank McMahon, a spokesman for First Student bus company.
“Some progress was made and the lines of communication are going to remain open, and we look forward to having more for you at a later date,” McMahon said.
No date for a follow up mediation session was set. The union’s Williams said that hinges on the meeting of the Providence School Board on Wednesday.
