Bronx building workers call for more pay

Service workers at Bronx residential buildings
say they are paid less than workers in other boroughs. The workers, represented
by Local 32BJ, are negotiating with the Bronx Realty Advisory Board and other
big employers as their contract approaches its March 14 expiration. The union
says the Bronx real estate market is thriving
while its workers earn only $10 an hour, compared to the average rate of $18.69
in other boroughs. Borough President Adolfo Carrion reported that Bronx property values have increased 76 percent in the
past four years, while rents have increased 17 percent since 2005.