On February 8th, in a unanimous decision, the Board of Commissioners voted to extend Allied Universal’s Metrorail and transportation hubs' armed security guards contract and increase the pay of armed security guards. This was a big win for the company, our partners in organized labor, and County staff.
Providing Security Services
For the first time in 5 years, transit security officers will receive a pay raise. These armed guards often encounter dangerous and stressful situations dealing with members of the public who need medical or psychiatric services. They are also responsible for the transport of cash in the facilities and the protection of community members passing through. As Ianna Santos, currently serving the Dadeland South metro rail station, put it, "This job, of course, is not for the faint of heart, but I love my job."
The job has been hard to fill lately. With the previous wages too low due to inflation, vacancies have become commonplace, putting another layer of stress on the current staff of guards. The extra $4+ an hour will, hopefully, encourage job seekers to fill those positions and make the current staff realize how important they and their jobs are.
“As a community, we're asking someone to do a job we should always be willing to pay them right, and that's what this does," Oliver Gilbert, Miami-Dade County of Commissioners Chairman, stated. Thank you, Chairman!
The increase comes from requests from Allied Universal, which provides security personnel for Metrorail, and the union representing the officers. The combined efforts resulted in a victory in achieving the pay raise and in the unanimous support of the Mayor of Miami-Dade County and the entire Commission, a testament to the service's value.
About Allied Universal
Allied Universal is a leading security and facility services company that provides proactive security services and cutting-edge smart technology. Allied’s excellence starts with local leadership and a local presence. Allied and its employees believe there is no greater purpose than serving and safeguarding customers, communities, and people in today’s world. Allied Universal is ‘There for you.’ Allied Universal is the sixth largest employer in the world.
About Gazitua
Gazitua Letelier is a Miami Government Relations and Miami Lobbying firm serving elected officials, businesses, international clients, technology organizations, and trade associations. Miami-Dade lobbying, advocacy, and Miami-Dade Bid Protest are our largest service areas, covering Miami, Miami-Dade, and her municipalities.
