Years ago, Harvard was embroiled in a student sit-in demanding a “living wage” for its custodians, and I was embroiled in an e-mail debate over whether this was a good idea. I remember that those in support of the wage increase argued that Harvard’s demand for custodial labor is completely inelastic (”Harvard needs to get its buildings cleaned no matter what”), so the minimum wage increase would not decrease employment. I countered that Harvard did face budget constraints, and that it could adjust how often its buildings were cleaned.

I hate to say “I told you so,” but I told you so.

Harvard is quietly planning to lay off some subcontracted custodians in an effort to reduce operating costs, drawing consternation from union organizers who represent University workers. …

[Harvard spokeseman Kevin Galvin] added that in addition to pursuing personnel cuts, HMS and HRES custodial directors have reexamined the frequency with which offices and building spaces are cleaned. While highly visible areas such as labs and washrooms will continue to be cleaned each day, other locations—such as offices, stairwells, and common spaces—may only be cleaned twice a week or weekly.

http://www.thecrimson.com/article.aspx?ref=526611