Mayor Cherelle Parker has announced the conclusion of the work stoppage involving AFSCME District Council 33 (DC 33) and the City of Philadelphia. A tentative agreement has been reached that will now require ratification by the council’s membership.
During the seven-day work stoppage, which began on July 1, 2025, approximately 9,000 municipal workers from various city departments participated. Despite the strike, the City of Philadelphia successfully maintained essential services and public safety by activating emergency plans. Residents were encouraged to stay updated on the situation through official communications.
As the agreement is set to be confirmed, further details regarding the restoration of city services will be shared. While core operations continued throughout the strike, some services were temporarily altered. For instance, curbside trash and recycling collections were suspended, and residents were advised on alternative drop-off locations for waste materials. The Philadelphia Fire Department remained fully operational, though non-emergency hotlines experienced high call volumes.
The City also ensured access to food for youth through summer meal programs, with free meals available for children and teens. Public health clinics operated at reduced service levels, and City Health Centers remained open to serve community needs.
A focus on both roadway safety and emergency repairs was maintained by the Department of Streets, although signficant staffing shortages were noted in various departments.
For ongoing updates, residents can follow the City of Philadelphia on social media platforms or sign up for emergency notifications.
This positive development marks a hopeful step toward improved working conditions for municipal employees and the reinvigoration of city services for residents, reinforcing the community’s commitment to collaboration and progress. The successful negotiation process reflects a growing understanding between city officials and union representatives, which bodes well for future partnerships.