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When workers went to install a new biometric clock at the LIRR Jamaica station to help better monitor when workers clock in and out, to keep track of overtime, they found that the communication line used by the clock had been cut by a suspected saboteur.
The cut cord led to an investigation by the MTA Inspector General’s Office and MTA Police Department. No suspect has been publicly identified.
The new clocks will use fingerprint technology to check in and out, and are expected to be rolled out across LIRR stations amid the investigation into overtime abuse by MTA employees.
“This office will have zero tolerance for any sabotaging of the equipment that is vital for ensuring the integrity of our timekeeping system,” new MTA Inspector General Carolyn Pokorny stated, calling it “shocking and unacceptable to learn that one of these devices has been sabotaged.
“I am directing our office to both work with the MTA Police to determine who performed this illegal act, and investigate whether this matter demands additional reforms and precautions across the LIRR system.”
In total, the MTA shelled out $418 million in overtime last year, prompting further investigation.
LIRR overtime spending increased by nearly 30 percent, totaling $224.6 million in 2018, up $50 million from the previous year’s $175.4 million. Employees collected an average of 50 percent more in overtime in 2018 - $34,000 - than 2017, when overtime averaged $22,701. LIRR payroll spending last year grew by more than 10 percent, or $84 million.
According to a watchdog report, LIRR has increased payroll spending by 45 percent or $280 million since 2008, while the number of employees increased by 9.6 percent. LIRR employees were paid an average of $112,404 last year, compared to $84,484 in 2008.
“The MTA is funded by taxpayers and is responsible for the safe transport of millions of people each day,” MTA Chairman and CEO Patrick Foye said. “It is critical that we earn and maintain the public trust every day, ensuring that every dollar spent on overtime is, in fact, being spent properly is part of that mission.”
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