A Rhode Island-based construction company has been cited by the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office for failing to pay workers accurate wages for their work on a Methuen public works project.
The office of Maura Healey issued two citations totaling $35,285 in restitution and penalties against C&E Concrete Construction Co. and company president Edward Krasner. In addition to failing to pay workers the prevailing wage, C&E failed to submit accurate payroll records.
An investigation into C&E began after a local labor union alleged the wage discrepancy involving workers taking part in the Nicholson Stadium Clubhouse project in Methuen. Upon review, it was determined that C&E paid workers $13 to $25 per hour instead of the mandated hourly rate for laborers of $50.25.
“These companies received taxpayer funds for construction projects in our communities, but failed to pay the wages required under state law,” Healey said. “Our office enforces these laws to ensure that all contractors meet their commitments to the public and can’t gain a competitive advantage by not following the law.”
According to the Better Business Bureau, C&E has been in operation for 18 years and carries an ‘A+’ customer review rating.