MTD and Teamsters Work to Avoid Strike

Negotiations between the Santa Barbara Metropolitan Transit District and the Teamsters Union Local 186 are ongoing this morning, as the two sides try to prevent a strike by MTD bus drivers.

Drivers have been without a contract since June 30, 2010. MTD released a statement this morning, saying, “If a resolution is not reached and the Teamsters choose to strike, MTD will provide the community with as much advance notice as possible.”

A phone call to Bill Elder with Teamsters Local 186 was not immediately returned. MTD spokesman David Damiano didn’t immediately return a phone call seeking more information beyond the press release.

MTD is expected to provide an update later this afternoon.