Vermont Construction Company Partners with Worker Rights Groups to Improve Conditions
Vermont Construction Company, a prominent Colchester contractor, recently found itself in the midst of controversy due to its housing of migrant workers in crowded, unfinished industrial spaces. However, a recent development has seen the company join forces with worker rights groups to address these issues and set new standards for its business practices and worker housing.
In a press conference held on Tuesday, company cofounder David Richards, along with Migrant Justice and a host of supporters, announced a partnership with a Minnesota nonprofit to establish guidelines and ensure better conditions for workers. The move comes after the company faced fines from the state Division of Fire Safety for operating unsafe dormitory-style housing at Fort Ethan Allen.
Richards emphasized the importance of the partnership in establishing a third-party auditor to review pay, living conditions, and housing provided by Vermont Construction’s subcontractors. He also highlighted the positive impact this collaboration could have on alleviating the worker shortage in Vermont, stating, “This partnership with Building Dignity will help attract the very people who will be building houses in Vermont.”
Migrant Justice, known for its advocacy for migrant farmworkers, has expanded its efforts to include the construction industry. The Minnesota nonprofit, Building Dignity, which monitors human rights in the Twin Cities’ construction sector, will be instrumental in working with Vermont Construction to enhance workplace safety and provide workers with a voice.
Will Lambek, a spokesperson for Migrant Justice, shared that the group plans to open an office in Vermont soon, focusing on developing standards for construction worker housing. Drawing from their farm worker housing program, which includes provisions for safety and dignity, Lambek emphasized the importance of evaluating the needs of construction workers based on their experiences.
Vermont Construction faced fines last year for building safety violations after reports of migrant laborers living in substandard conditions. Following the town of Colchester’s evacuation orders for two buildings, Richards, alongside Latino workers, Lambek, and Doug Mork, executive director of Building Dignity and Respect, signed a symbolic contract demonstrating the company’s commitment to labor and housing standards.
Marita Canedo, program coordinator for Migrant Justice’s Milk With Dignity Program, commended Vermont Construction for taking a proactive stance and called on other construction companies to follow suit. Meanwhile, Mork outlined the objectives of the program, which aims to protect workers from various forms of exploitation and ensure compliance with the code of conduct.
The initiative is not only focused on addressing current challenges but also on empowering workers through education and investigating complaints about working conditions. Mork expressed optimism about extending the program to other Vermont construction companies in the near future, underscoring the potential for positive change within the industry.
As Vermont Construction Company and its partners embark on this collaborative journey to enhance worker conditions and promote fairness, the construction industry in the region stands to benefit from improved standards and a more equitable working environment.
