TTD approves $4 an hour increase for Teamsters 533 bus drivers

December 3, 2021 (Stateline, Nev.) - On December 1, the Tahoe Transportation District board of directors unanimously approved a $4 per hour raise for transit staff. This, in addition to the $3000 signing bonus for drivers makes it one of the most competitive districts in the region - especially when other localities are struggling to retain drivers. The Northern Nevada Central Labor Council applauds this decision.

“It is long past time that our local governments recognize the value of front-line workers and reward their service through the pandemic,” said NNCLC President Mike Pilcher. “This is what Teamsters 533 - and all our local unions - strive for: Wages that support working families and respect on and off the job.”

“This increase has been a long-time coming and I’m grateful for the board’s support in our efforts to reward the staff that’s gotten us through the most difficult years this community has ever seen,” said TTD Manager Carl Hasty. “The cost of living in Tahoe has become a major barrier for us when it comes to staffing. While the nation continues to face staffing shortages, Tahoe’s in an even more difficult situation with housing availability at an all time low. This is the least we can do for our incredible staff who’s sticking with us to serve the people of South Shore and the Carson Valley.” 

According to the Tahoe Transportation District,

In recent months, TTD has announced that it has had to modify routes due to staffing issues. Staff made the recommendation to increase pay to compete in a difficult hiring market. The district invites all interested parties to apply at www.tahoetransportation.org/careers. Several positions are available. 

“TTD’s commitment to driving the future of regional transit shows up in several ways, including their ability to accomplish necessary changes like these amid tough times,” said International Brotherhood of Teamsters Local 533 Vice President Chris Fuqua. “Our operators have never been more concerned for their safety and well-being than they have while working through a pandemic and the wild-fire season, but they stepped up when called upon and it is encouraging that the board of directors are now doing the same for these essential workers. Its organizations like TTD that are truly looking out for their employees, as well as the community they serve.”