Discussions at the City Council's Board of Estimates Monday night also raised questions about whether Cintas answered questions truthfully on its bid request.
Jim Cavanaugh, president of the Madison-based South Central Federation of Labor, presented the panel Monday night with a letter alleging that the international uniform company abruptly terminated service in Hayward, Calif., after workers in neighboring San Leandro sued the company for failing to pay the prevailing living wage.
The company, according to Cavanaugh, attempted to overturn the law and the case is still pending.
Cintas is also being sued in a class action suit in Los Angeles for alleged violations of the living wage law. That case is also still pending.
Cavanaugh said the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power terminated a nearly $1 million contract with Cintas "for cause" in January 2004 after Cintas refused to comply with the terms of the contract for nine months prior to termination.
He also suggested that the City Attorney's Office look at three lawsuits where Cintas has been "at odds with U.S. labor law."
Board members asked the City Attorney's Office to review whether, in light of these new allegations, Cintas was truthful on its request for proposal when asked whether it has ever defaulted on a contract or been cited for unfair labor practices. Assistant City Attorney Lara Mainella said the company answered "no" on both questions.
Board members referred the matter to a special meeting next Monday.