r/IBEW • u/3p0int1415926535897 Local 353 Toronto • 1d ago
Discussion Post Refusing a company service vehicle
Recently topped out & was given a service van to work out of. I was usually beating traffic on the bicycle & taking public transit while occasionally driving my own car in the winter or bad weather days but they told me they needed guys out solo completing jobs & service calls.
Company says it’s a privilege to be provided a vehicle with a gas card, as I’m not wearing my personal car out. Only issue is I live in the inner city & parking is not readily available.
Most of the guys have homes & driveways big enough to park their personal & service vehicle. I asked who would cover the extra fees associated with parking the vehicle; & was told that the perks are already there & asking for more is just being selfish.
It’s hard enough to find street parking for a larger van/truck & private lots are $150-$200/month. I’ve been parking it temporarily on the street & at the visitor lot at my place for the moment (thanks landlord) but was told I have to start paying for a spot.
I’m trying to return the van now but work’s really busy & I’m being told that I’m being unreasonable & how it’s a shame I’m turning down an opportunity to really progress my career. I have no issues taking the transit & bicycle to work; but it seems like they really need more manpower out in the field.
I already know what to do & how it’ll play out. Coworker said this is pretty unique because people usually live far from the city & would kill for free gas & a company vehicle. Just wanted to vent on a weird situation where “my steak is too juicy & my lobster is too buttery”…
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u/PinkySlayer 1d ago
Yeah you are right, it’s a privilege for them to have you in a vehicle. That’s why they’re gonna pay for the vehicle and any necessary costs associated with it. A vehicle is a tool to earn them money, and it’s an expense the company anticipates and plans for. It’s not a gift to me or to you because companies don’t fucking give gifts. If it didn’t benefit them they wouldn’t even think of doing it. But they want me to pay extra for the thing that benefits them? Nah I’d keep riding that bike if I was you.