In a significant development for labor rights in the casino industry, valet workers at the Ocean Casino Resort in Atlantic City have voted to join Teamsters Local 331. This victory adds 52 valet employees to the over 5,000 casino workers nationwide represented by the Teamsters, solidifying their presence in the Atlantic City region. Affiliated with the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, Local 331 serves workers across Atlantic, Cape May, Cumberland, and Gloucester counties in New Jersey.
Organizing Triumph:
Marcus King, President of Local 331, expressed his warm welcome to the newest members and commended their decision to organize with the Teamsters. He emphasized the significance of this victory and expressed anticipation for assisting the newly organized valet workers in securing a fair and comprehensive first contract that recognizes their dedication.
Employee Perspectives:
Regina Ceballos, a valet cashier at Ocean Casino Resort, shed light on the motivation behind the decision to organize, citing the need for greater respect on the job. She highlighted the management’s unilateral decisions and the desire of the valet workers to reclaim some control and have a voice in their workplace. Despite acknowledging that there is still work ahead, Ceballos conveyed excitement and readiness to advocate for a robust first contract.
Teamsters’ Vision:
Tommy Blitsch, director of the Teamsters convention, trade show, and casino division, shared insights into the discontent among valets at Ocean Casino and their determination to secure the benefits and protections guaranteed by a Teamsters contract. He sees this victory as a significant milestone, poised to inspire other nonunion workers at Atlantic City casinos.
National Trend:
This success in Atlantic City is part of a broader trend in the casino industry. In November, slot attendants at Rivers Casino Portsmouth in Virginia voted to join Teamsters Local 822, signaling a growing momentum for unionization in the sector. This particular casino, opened just a year ago, has become part of an Entertainment District along Victory Boulevard, south of I-264.
Infrastructure Enhancement at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City:
Shifting focus to the developments within the industry, November saw the unveiling of a new high-limit slot area at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City. This enhancement includes the addition of 72 new slots, bringing the resort’s total high-limit machines to an impressive 258 — the highest number in Atlantic City. The redesigned space comprises four semi-private gaming rooms, each equipped with two slot machines, LED televisions, and wireless chargers.
The successful unionization of valet workers at Ocean Casino Resort, coupled with the broader trend in the industry, marks a notable stride for labor rights in the casino sector. As valets secure their representation with Teamsters Local 331, the industry landscape may witness further transformations, empowering workers to voice their concerns and negotiate fair contracts. The developments at Ocean Casino and other establishments underscore the growing importance of collective bargaining in an industry that plays a crucial role in the economic landscape of cities like Atlantic City.