Jackson Mayor John Horhn is attempting to prevent a strike by city bus workers that could leave residents stranded during the summer heat. The Amalgamated Transit Union Local 1208, representing bus drivers and other employees, has authorized a strike if contract negotiations with MV Transportation, the third-party contractor, do not progress.
The union’s concerns primarily involve proposed cost-cutting measures, including hiring drivers without commercial licenses and reducing services. The dispute comes amid ongoing negotiations that have been ongoing since the union’s previous contract expired in December 2025, according to union members.
In an email Monday night, Horhn did not specify what actions he plans to take to prevent the strike and was unavailable for comment from Mississippi Today. Both sides have appealed to the mayor for intervention, with MV Transportation proposing changes that could save the city about $1.8 million on its roughly $9 million contract.
The company’s proposal includes cutting two fixed routes, shortening work shifts, eliminating Saturday service, and hiring drivers without commercial licenses for on-demand services. MV Transportation also offered bonuses to union members if the city approves its redesign plan.
Union President Charles Tornes said he met with Horhn months ago about the proposals but was told the mayor lacked enough details to form a position. Tornes added that the union has not met with the mayor since and that the union’s main goal is to secure competitive pay raises and maintain existing benefits. The union also opposes changes to route assignment processes and the ability to switch drivers between services.
MV Transportation has stated that it cannot afford higher wages without implementing its cost-saving measures. The city initially considered the proposal but withdrew it after public concerns, referring it to a committee for further review. The dispute echoes previous tensions, including a brief strike in early 2024 over working conditions.
Jackson officials and the union continue to negotiate, with residents hoping for a resolution before the potential strike deadline approaches.
Jon Ross Myers is the executive editor and publisher of the Mississippi News Network, Mississippi's largest digital only media company. He can be reached at editor@tippahnews.com
