SEIU Local 1 Security Officers Unanimously Ratify Contract with BOMA & Contractors, Solidifying Path to $25 Hourly Wage in Historic Agreement
New 3-year agreements guarantee annual raises, fully-employer paid healthcare and put $100 million into communities across the region
Chicago, IL – In a landmark victory for essential workers across the city, nearly 4,000 SEIU Local 1 security officers have unanimously ratified a new contract with the Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) and security contractors, securing a clear path to a $25 per hour wage and achieving the largest wage increase in the history of Chicago’s private security industry.
This transformative agreement raises standards for thousands of officers who protect Chicago’s premier commercial properties — and it comes on the heels of a powerful, months-long campaign by workers. Thousands of officers marched through downtown, rallied in the streets, and proudly stickered up on the job to demand the dignity and respect they’ve long deserved. Their unity and determination brought industry leaders to the table and delivered results.
“This contract is a win for every security officer who stood together and demanded better,” said SEIU Local 1 President Genie Kastrup. “Local 1 security officers — often the first line of defense — play a vital role in keeping our buildings, tenants, and visitors safe every single day. Thanks to the long-standing partnership between SEIU Local 1 and BOMA, we’ve been able to continue building a strong, stable workforce that benefits everyone. Reaching $25 an hour is about dignity, stability, and ensuring that those who take on this critical responsibility can also care for their own families. With this agreement, we’re not just raising wages — we’re making history.”
“As a mother and grandmother, this victory means everything to me,” said Mary Hardin, SEIU Local 1 Executive Board Member and a longtime security officer providing safety for over 28 years. “It’s not just about a bigger paycheck — it’s about peace of mind. It means I can keep the lights on, put food on the table, and plan for my family's future without constantly worrying if the next bill will break us. We fought hard for this, and I’m proud we stood together and made history. This contract shows what’s possible when we don’t back down.”
“In my 25 yeas as a security officer, I’ve never seen a contract like this — it’s truly historic,” said Bryant Boyd, SEIU Local 1 Executive Board Member and security officer. “This is the best agreement we’ve ever won. It’s a game-changer not just for me, but for every officer coming up behind me. We’ve raised the standard for what this job can be, and it shows the power we have when we stand united. I’m proud to have been part of this fight — and even prouder of what we’ve accomplished together.”
The BOMA/Downtown Standard Collective Bargaining Agreements guarantees:
Raises over the next three years of increases ranging from at least $3.00 up to $6.85 an hour.
100% employer-paid healthcare;
Additional paid personal/sick day
Increased employer contributions to pension plans so Local 1 security officers can retire with dignity.
Created a fully employer-paid training and legal fund
The unanimous ratification marks a major milestone — and lays critical groundwork for the fights ahead. SEIU security officers across the country will negotiate this year, and today’s win sets a powerful foundation for what’s possible when workers stand together. This victory is especially important as we gear up for our Metro Security campaign in the coming weeks, where 7,000 officers will fight for a strong new contract, building on the momentum we’ve created together.