The new members cite a need for improved job security, better health care benefits, and retirement stability as primary drivers for the vote. These technicians, who maintain the fleet serving the region’s most vulnerable residents, plan to finalize their negotiation priorities and appoint a rank-and-file committee in the coming weeks. Paul Dascher, Secretary-Treasurer of Local 117, noted that the workforce has faced significant pressure due to understaffing and low compensation. Michael Glass, a 17-year veteran technician, emphasized that the decision to unionize is a necessary step to secure fair treatment and workplace improvements. Local 117 now represents a broader coalition of drivers, schedulers, and instructors across three King County facilities, strengthening its leverage to demand annual wage increases and improved working conditions from the employer.