January 2006
PORTAGE COUNTY. . .Highway Department workers in Portage County, members of Local 311, have a new three-year contract. Wages were increased 3% retroactive to 1/1/05. Another 3% pay hike was applied in 1/1/06. There's a wage reopener for 2007. A new premium of 25¢/hour will apply when working in confined spaces or using respirators. The County has agreed to continue paying 90% of the single and family health insurance premiums. Annual longevity pay was increased at all steps to 5 years/$150; 10 years/$300; 15 years/$450; 20 years/$600; and 25 years/$750. Vacation was improved by lowering the years required at most steps on the schedule to 7 years/16 days; 14 years/21 days; 20 years/26 days; 29 years/31 days. Sick leave accumulation was increased from 120 days to 130 days.
ADAMS. . .City of Adams employees, members of Local 323, recently ratified a new three-year contract. Wages were increased 3% on 1/1/06. Additional 3% pay increases are scheduled for 1/1/07 and 1/1/08. Two positions received special upward pay reclassifications. The City will continue to pay 95% of the single and family health insurance premiums. The City will also continue to pay 50% of the dental insurance premiums for single and family coverage. A new comp time provision was added to the contract.
WAUKESHA. . .School District Employees in Waukesha, members of Local 2485 in four separate bargaining units, have new three-year contracts. Custodial/Maintenance employees received a 1.25% pay increase retroactive to 7/1/04, 1.5% on 1/1/05 and 2.75% on 1/1/06. Another 2.75% wage increase is set for 1/1/07. Clerical staff received a 1.5% pay increase on 7/1/04, another 1.25% on 1/1/05 and 2.75% on 1/1/06. They will also get another 2.75% on 1/1/07. The Teacher Aide unit received a 2.75% wage increase retroactive to 7/1/04, another 2.75% on 7/1/05 and another 2.75% increase is set for 7/1/06. Computer Aides recieved an upward pay grade reclassification. Pay increases for Food Service employees were 2.75% on 7/1/04, 2.75% on 7/1/05 and a 3% wage increase is set for 7/1/06. Employees in the Maintenance/Custodial, Clerical and Teacher Aide units will continue having the District pay all of the health insurance premiums, except $35/month, for single and family coverage. The lifetime maximum for benefits was increased to $2 million.
OMRO ARBITRATION WINS. . .Custodial/Maintenance and Secretarial employees of the Omro School District, members of Local 1838, won new three-year contracts with two separate Interest Arbitration Awards. For both units, wages were increased by 2% retroactive to 7/1/03, another 2% retroactive to 7/1/04 and a final 2% pay hike on 7/1/05. On health insurance, both arbitrators awarded for the Union thus continuing 90% payment of the family premium and 100% of the single premium. Life insurance benefits were increased from $10,000 to the equivalent of the annual salary. Inclement weather and layoff language was improved in the Secretaries' contract. Staff Rep Mary Scoon represented Local 1838 in both Interest Arbitration proceedings.
RICHLAND COUNTY. . .Highway Department, Courthouse and Professional Employees in Richland County, members of Locals 2387, 2085 and 2085-C, recently ratified new two-year contracts. Wage rates for all units were increased by 2% retroactive to 1/1/05 and another 1% retroactive to 7/1/05. An additional 2.5% pay hike was applied on 1/1/06. A couple of upward pay reclassifications were also part of the Courthouse settlement. The County agreed to continue paying 105% of the lowest State Plan of health insurance for family and single coverage. Dental insurance will also continue at 100% payment by the Employer for family and single coverage. Bereavement leave was improved by adding three days for a son-in-law or daughter-in-law.
MONROE COUNTY CLEAN SWEEP. . .We reported last month that Monroe County Local 1947, which represents members at the County's Health Care Center, won a significant Interest Arbitration award to settle their 2005-2006 contract. Since then, we've received three more Interest Arbitration victories in Monroe County: Professional Employees, members of Local 2470; Monroe County Courthouse Employees, members of Local 138; and County Highway Department Employees, members of Local 2470. In each case, the arbitrator selected the Union's final offer, which included a 2% wage increase retroactive to 1/1/05 and another 2% pay hike on 1/1/06. The Employer had sought imposition of a large increase in health insurance deductibles. The County also lost in part because it stopped deducting union dues and fair share fees when the old contract expired. All Union final offers included retroactivity for union security provisions. Some Union final offers also included continuation of important memorandums of agreement. Council 40 Staff Rep Dan Pfeifer represented all of our Monroe County locals in these arbitration proceedings.
WAUKESHA. . .Water utility employees in Waukesha, members of Local 3938, have reached agreements covering three years. Wages increased 3% effective 1/1/06. Additonal 3% increases are scheduled for 1/1/07 and 1/1/08. The Utility continues to pay 90% of the single and family health insurance premiums. Benefit changes include improvements in out-of-class pay and the establishment of a Health Reimbursement Account (HRA) that allows a 10% rollover of contributions.
WISCONSIN RAPIDS. . .School District Food Service workers here, members of Local 1075, ratified a new two-year contract. Wages were increased 2.2% retroactive to 7/1/04 and 2.5% retroactive to 7/1/05. An additional 2.5% increase is scheduled for 7/1/06. The School District now contributes 90% to the family health insurance premium with a maximum out-of-pocket expense of $800. The District agreed to contribute 90% of the single health insurance premium with a maximum out-of-pocket expense of $350. In addition, the District now contributes $50/month towards family dental insurance and $25/month towards single insurance. Sick leave accumulation increased from 120 to 125 days, and the clothing allowance increased from $110 to $120.
CLARK COUNTY. . .Members of Local 546 who work for the Clark County Highway Department recently ratified a new 2004-2006 contract. Wages were increased 3% retroactive to 1/1/04 and another 3% retroactive to 1/1/05. A 1% pay increase was applied on 1/1/06 and another 2% is set for 7/1/06. The Head Mechanic received an extra 25¢ on 1/1/04 and 1/1/05. The County agreed to continue paying 85% of the single and family health insurance premiums. Health insurance deductibles were increased from $100/$200 to $200/$600. A $25 co-pay for office visits was agreed to. Sick leave accumulation was increased from 100 to 120 days. Sick leave payout was increased from 50% to 100% with 20 years of service. New language protecting jobs in the event a CDL is lost was added.
February 2006TOWN OF SOMERS. . .DPW and Town Hall employees in Somers (Kenosha County), members of Local 71, recently ratified a new three-year contract. Wages were increased 2% retroactive to 1/1/05 and another 2% back to 7/1/05. On 1/1/06, wages were increased another 2% with an additional 2% increase set for 7/1/06. In 2007, wages will increase 2% on 1/1/07 another 4% on 7/1/07. The Town has agreed to continue paying 100% of the single and family health and dental insurance premiums. The Lead Worker received a new task rate premium worth $1.00/hour. PEOPLE checkoff language was added.
MADISON. . .Members of Local 60 who work for the Madison Metropolitan Sewerage District recently settled a new 2006-2008 contract. Wages were increased 3% on 1/1/06. Additional 3% pay hikes are set for 1/1/07 and 1/1/08. The Employer will continue to pay 100% of the single and family health insurance premiums. 100% of the single dental insurance is paid by the Employer. If employees waive health insurance coverage they receive $300/month (was $100). Double time will now be paid for Sunday call-ins. Added was a provision for no loss of job for the non-occupational loss of a CDL.
RICHLAND CENTER. . .Police Officers at the Richland Center Police Department, members of Local 2085-A, and Richland Center DPW, City Hall Clerical Employees, and Library Staff, all members of Local 2387-A in separate bargaining units, have new three-year contracts. Wages were increased 2.25% retroactive to 1/1/05. A 2.15% increase was applied on 1/1/06. A wage hike worth another 2.15% was set for 1/1/07. The City has agreed to continue paying 105% of the lowest qualified State Plan of health insurance for both single and family coverage. For the Police unit the compensatory time maximum was increased from 17 hours to 25.5 hours.
March 2006CLARK COUNTY. . .Courthouse workers in Clark County, members of Local 546-B, have a new 3-year agreement. Wages increased 3% retroactively on 1/1104 and 1/1/05. Wages increased an additional 1% on 1/1/06 with an additional lift of 2% effective 7/1/06. The County continues to pay 85% of health insurance premiums. The health insurance deductibles increased from $100/single, $200/family to $200/single and $600/family. Insurance co-pays are now $25/office visit and $75/emergency room. Maximum sick leave accumulation increased from 100 days to 120 days and payout increased from 50% of accumulation to 100% after 20 years of service.
DODGE COUNTY. . .Highway Department employees here, members of Local 1323, have a new 3-year contract. Wages increased 3% 1/1/05 and again on 1/1/06. A wage reopener is planned for 1/1/07. Dodge County will continue to pay 105% of the health insurance premiums of the lowest cost qualified state plan. The County will also continue to pay 100% of the dental insurance premiums. Benefit changes include improved sick leave payout - 80% at retirement, additional coveralls for welders and mechanics, and a tool allowance of $150/year (was $110). Substantive language changes include extending recall from layoff from 12 to 15 months and allowing up to 2 employees who temporarily lose their CDLs for non work-related reasons to continue working for up to 15 months.
WALWORTH COUNTY. . .Members of Local 1925-A employed at Lakeland Care Center have a new 2- year agreement. Wages increased 1.25% 1/1/05 and again on 7/1/05. Wages increased 1.25% on 1/1/06 as quid pro quo for insurance changes. The employer will pay 100% of single health insurance premiums and 97% of family health insurance premiums for employees who choose a limited network plan. Three (3) other HMO/PPO options are available to employees at additional cost. In lieu of retiree health insurance benefits, new hires will receive a post retirement health plan with the County initially contributing $3,000 to the account.
ROTHSCHILD. . .Members of Local 1287-A who work at the Rothschild DPW recently ratified a new two-year contract. Wage rates were increased 2.5% on 1/1/06. Another 2.5% increase is set for 1/1/07. The Employer will pay all but $40/month for family health insurance in 2006 and all but $45 in 2007. For single coverage, the Employer pays all but $16/month in ‘06 and $20 in ‘07. The Employer will continue to pay 70% of the single and family dental insurance cost.
TOWN OF MENASHA. . .City Hall, DPW and Police Communicators, members of Local 1035-E have approved a three-year contract. Wage increases were 2.75% effective 1/1/06, 3% effective 1/1/07 and 3% effective 1/1/08. In addition all positions in the bargaining unit received upgrades ranging from $1.00 to $1.26. Longevity pay steps were added providing and additional 5¢ per hour after reaching 5 years of service and an additional 5¢ every 5 years after that until reaching 30 years. A shift premium of 15¢ per hour was added for Communications Technicians for hours worked between 6 pm. and 6 a.m. Comm. Techs. will also receive 25¢ per hour when training new employees. Street Department clothing allowance was increased from $125/yr to $300/yr. Pro-rated benefits were added for part-time employees which didn't receive any. Health insurance premium contribution for single coverage was increase from 95% to 90%, family remains at 95%, a cap on employee premium contribution was removed.
GIBRALTAR. . .School support staff who work for the Gibraltar School District, members of Local 1658, have a new two-year contract. Wages were increased 3% retroactive to 7/1/05. On 1/1/06 0.25% increase was applied with another 3% increase set for 7/1/06. The School Secretary classification received an extra 50¢/hour prior to the general increases. Health insurance for members who choose the POS plan will continue to be paid at 100% for single coverage and 97% for family coverage. For those who choose the indemnity plan, the District will pay 88% of the family plan premium and 93% of the single cost. Two days of "catastrophic leave" was added to the sick leave accrual.
NEW LONDON. . .DPW and Parks Department workers in New London, members of Local 1756-A, recently ratified a new two-year agreement. Wages were increased by 55¢/hour retroactive to 1/1/06. Another 55¢/hour increase is set for 7/1/07. The Employer will continue to pay 92% of the single and family health insurance premiums. Longevity pay was increased from $35 to $40 for each year of service. Standby pay was improved. A new tool allowance for mechanics was added, worth $150/year. Several language improvements were also part of the settlement.
SHAWANO COUNTY. . .Members of Local 2648 who work at the Maple Lane Health Care Center in Shawano County have a new two-year contract. Wages were increased 3% retroactive to 1/1/05. Another 3% increase was applied on 1/1/06. The Employer will continue to pay 100% of the single health insurance premium and 90% of the cost of the family plan. Some cost-saving changes were made to the health plan. The clothing allowance was increased from $75 to $100.PORTAGE COUNTY. . .Courthouse, Health Care, and Library employees in Portage County, members of Local 311 have a new two-year contract. Wages were increased 3% retroactive to 1/1/05 and another 3% pay hike was applied 1/1/06. The County has agreed to continue paying 90% of the single and family health insurance premiums. Prescription drug co-pays increased to $13 effective 1/1/06 and to $15 effective 12/31/06. Sick leave accumulation was increased from 120 days to 130 days. Among the numerous classification adjustments, House Counselors hourly rates increased from $12.13 to $14.13 and Lead Workers in the Health and Human Services Department received an additional 200/hour.
WAUKESHA COUNTY. . .Parks workers here, members of Local 1365, ratified a new three-year agreement. The contract provides increases of 2% retroactive to 1 /8/05 with an additional increase of 1% retroactive to 6/25/05. On 1/7/06 wages increased 3%. On 3/31107 wages will increase another 2% with an additional 2% increase scheduled for 9/29/07. The County continues to pay 90% of single and family health insurance premiums with plan design changes effective 1/1/07. Maximum sick leave accumulation was increased to 960 hours. Employees can now contribute up to 20% of that amount each year to a postretirement health care fund.
BROOKFIELD. . .Department of Public Works employees who work for the City of Brookfield, members of Local 20, recently ratified two successive labor agreements. In the first contract, wages were increased 3% retroactive to 1/1/05. Another 4% pay hike was applied on 1/1/06. The Employer’s payment for the single and family health insurance premium went from 95% to 90%. The Employer’s monthly contribution toward the single and family dental plan went from $17 for single and $50 for family to 30% and 70%, respectively. Comp time off accumulation went from 56 hours to 64 hours. The shoe allowance was increased $15 to $45/year. A new retiree health insurance savings plan was added giving employees the option to contribute 25% of unused sick leave annually to pay for health insurance in retirement. In the 2007-2009 agreement, wages will go up 3% and $1.12/hour on 1/1/07. Another 3% pay hike is set for 1/1/08. In the last year, wages will increase 2% on 1/1/09 and 1% on 7/1/09. The Equipment Operator premium pay went from 40¢/hour to 45¢ in 2007 and 50¢ in 2008. Sick leave payout went from 50% to 65%. The shoe allowance was improved again, up to $60/year in 2009.
D. C. EVEREST SCHOOL DISTRICT. . .Members of Local 1908 who work in the D. C. Everest School District (Marathon County) have settled back-to-back contracts. Wages were increased 3.5% retroactive to 7/1/05. Additional 3% pay increases are set for 7/1 each year, 2007-2009. Two clerical positions were upgraded in pay. Longevity pay will increase by 5¢/hour on 7/1/06. The Employer will continue to pay 90% of the single and family health insurance premiums. On 7/1/06 Employer contribution toward retiree health insurance will be $275/month single and $550/month family. Other language improvements were part of the settlement.
April 2006MANITOWOC. . .Custodian and maintenance employees of the Manitowoc School District, members of Local 731, recently settled their 2004-2005 contract with a win in Interest Arbitration. The parties had agreed to a 3% wage increase retroactive to 1/1/04. Also stipulated was an improvement in the health insurance plan to reduce the individual and family deductibles. Following internal comparables, the union's final offer for 3.5% was selected by the arbitrator. Staff Rep Neil Rainford represented the union in the proceedings.
May 2006MARATHON COUNTY. . .Office and Technical employees, members of Local 2492-E and Library employees, members of Local 2492-C, have new three-year contracts. Wages for both bargaining units were increased 2.5% retroactive to 1/1/06. Another 1% increase is set for 10/1/06. In 2007 wages will increase 2% on 1/1/07 and 1% on 7/1/07 for both units. In the last year, wages will increase 1.5% on 1/1/08 and again on 7/1/08. The county will continue paying 95% of the health insurance premiums. Deductibles were increased slightly. The county will continue paying 50% of the dental insurance premiums. The sick leave maximum went from 1152 hours to 1200 hours. Paid time off (PTO) or new holidays were significantly improved for both units.
Marathon County Social Services Clerical and Paraprofessional employees, members of Local 2492, reached the same settlement as the bargaining units above, but with Economic Support Specialists receiving an addition 8¢/hour on 1/1/06 and again on 1/1/08. The Clerical Assistant II classification received an extra 13¢/hour on 7/1/06 and another 14¢/hour on 7/1/07. Child Support Specialists will receive an additional 0.5% on 7/1/06 and 1% on 7/1/07.
HOWARD-SUAMICO SCHOOLS. . .Housekeeping employees at the Howard-Suamico School District (Brown County) recently ratified a new, fully retroactive, two-year contract which will expire on 6/30/06. Wage rates were increased by 85¢/hour retroactive to 7/1/04. During the term, the District continued to pay 95% of the family and single health insurance premiums.MARATHON COUNTY. . .Highway Department employees, members of Local 326, recently ratified a new three-year contract. Wages were increased 2.5% retroactive to 1/1/06. Another 1% pay increase is set for 10/1/06. A 2% wage increase is set for 1/1/07 with another 1% coming on 7/1/07. In the last year, wages will increase 1.5% on 1/1/08 and another 1.5% on 7/1/08. One operator classification went up a pay grade. The Employer agreed to continue paying 95% of the single and family health insurance premiums. Deductibles were increased slightly. The county will continue paying 50% of the dental insurance premiums. Shift differential went from 10¢/hour to 25¢/hour. Sick leave maximum increased from 1192 hours to 1200 hours. Funeral leave and the tool allowance were improved.
NEW BERLIN. . .City of New Berlin employees who work in the City Hall and Library, members of Local 2676, have a new three-year contract. Wages were increased 3.5% retroactive to 1/1/06. Additional 3.5% pay increases are set for 1/1/07 and 1/1/08. The Employer’s share of the single and family health insurance cost went from 95% to 90%. The compensatory time off provision was improved. The life insurance benefit was increased from a maximum of $20,000 to equal the annual salary. Sick leave payout increased from 50% to 60% of accumulation.
WAUPACA COUNTY. . .Patrol officers who work for the Waupaca County Sheriff’s Department recently settled a three-year contract. Wages were increased 3% retroactive to 1/1/05 and another 3% retroactive to 1/1/06. Another 3% pay increase is set for 1/1/07. The County agreed to continue paying 90% of the single and family health insurance premiums. Prescription drug co-pays were increased 1/1/07 from $3 to $10 for generics and $25 for preferred name-brands. In exchange, 5¢ was added to wage rates. A provision giving four hours of comp time to officers on weekend standby duty was added.SUSSEX. . .Employees who work for the Village of Sussex, Local 3024, have a new 2006-2007 contract. Wages were increased 3% on 1/1/06 with an additional 24¢ per hour added 2/1/06. A new health insurance plan was also added on 1/1/06. On 1/1/07, wages will increase another 3% on 1/1/07 plus 12¢ per hour. The Employer will continue paying 90% of the health insurance premiums that now features a HSA with $2,000/$4,000 deductibles, but with the Village of Sussex contributing $1,500/$3,000 to employee accounts; unlimited preventive services covered from the first dollar. The Employer will also continue paying 90% of the dental insurance premiums. Language improvements were part of the settlement, including a provision preventing job loss if the CDL is lost.
KEWASKUM. . .The Village of Kewaskum employees, members of Local 1061, settled a new three-year contract. Wages were increased 58¢ per hour on 1/1/06. Additional 3% pay increases are set for 1/1/07 and 1/1/08. The Village will continue to pay 92.5% of the single and family health insurance premiums. Several language improvements were part of the new contract, including a provision preventing job loss if the CDL is lost.
STURGEON BAY. . .School District employees in Sturgeon Bay, members of Local 1658, recently ratified a new two-year contract. Wages were increased 3% retroactive to 7/1/05, with another 3% pay hike set for 7/1/06. The District agreed to continue paying 90% of the single and family health insurance premiums.
KAUKAUNA. . .The employees in the City of Kaukauna, Local 130, have a new three-year contract. Wages were increased 2.5% retroactive to 1/1/05. Another 2.5% pay increase was applied on 1/1/06. A 2% wage increase is set for 1/1/07. The City will pay 90% of the health insurance premiums. The City agreed to pay either 75% or 50% (depending on the date of hire) of the health insurance for employees who retire at age 57 to 65. Language improvements were also part of the settlement.
June 2006APPLETON. . .Water Plant employees in Appleton, members of Local 73, recently ratified a new three-year contract. Wages were increased 3% retroactive to 1/1/06. A pay increase of 2.75% is set for 1/1/07. In the last year, wages will go up 2% on 1/1/08 and another 1% on 10/1/08. Relief Operator pay was placed on parity with Plant Operators. The Employer will continue to pay all but $50 per month for family health insurance coverage and $25 per month for single coverage. The shift differential went from 30¢ to 35¢/hour. Safety shoe allowance was increased by $10 to $110.
LINCOLN COUNTY. . .Employees who work for the Developmental Disabilities Board in Lincoln County, members of Local 332-A, have a new two-year contract. Wages went up 2.75% retroactive to 1/1/06. In addition, all classifications except Secretary received an additional 20¢/hour retroactive to 1/1/06 at the 18-month step and beyond. The Secretary positions received 35¢ prior to the percentage increase on 1/1/06. The Employer will pay all but $20/month for single health insurance and $35/month for family coverage. A weekend shift differential was added worth 35¢/hour. The vacation accruals were improved.
MARATHON COUNTY. . .Professional Employees who work at the Marathon County Courthouse and affiliated departments, members of Local 2492-D, have a new three-year contract. Wages were increased 2.5% retroactive to 1/1/06. Another 1% increase is set for 10/1/06. In 2007 wages will increase 2% on 1/1/07 and 1% on 7/1/07. In the third year, wages will increase 1.5% on 1/1/08 and another 1.5% on 7/1/08. The County will continue to pay 95% of the health insurance premiums for single and family coverage. Health insurance deductibles were increased slightly. The County will continue paying 50% of the dental insurance premiums. Sick leave accumulation was increased from 1152 to 1200 hours. A summer hours agreement was traded for 32 hours of paid time off (PTO). Language was improved regarding holidays and a Perfect Attendance Leave provision.
TOWN OF MENASHA. . .Town Hall, DPW and Police Department employees who work for the Town of Menasha, members of Local 1035-E, have ratified a 2006-2008 contract. Wages increased 2.75% retroactive to 1/1/06. Another 3% pay hike is set for 1/1/07. And in the third year, wages will go up another 3% on 1/1/08. All 10 classifications in the bargaining unit received pay upgrades in addition to the general increases stated above. These upgrades are worth $1.00 to $1.26 per hour and will be phased in over the term of the contract. A new longevity pay provision was added worth between 5¢ and 30¢ per hour depending on years of service. The Employer will continue paying 95% of the single and family health insurance premiums for 2006-2007. In 2008 the Employer's contribution drops to 90%. Lodging, meal, and mileage allowances were improved. The clothing allowance for DPW employees was increased from $125 to $300 per year. Several language changes were part of the settlement.
MAPLE SCHOOL DISTRICT. . .Bus drivers and mechanics who work for the Maple School District (Douglas County) recently ratified a new three-year contract. Wages will increase 3% on 7/1/06. Additional 3% pay hikes are scheduled for 7/1/07 and 7/1/08. The Employer will continue to pay 100% of the health insurance premiums for single and family coverage for employees who work 8 hours per day. Insurance premiums are pro-rated for part-time employees. If the health insurance cost increases more than 10%, the wage increases will be 2% in the last two years. Emergency days were increased from 2 to 3. Bus engine block heater reimbursement went from $110 to $175. Mileage, tool allowance, and meeting pay were all improved. Sick leave payout for retirees was improved.
ASHLAND. . .School district food service employees who work for the Ashland School District, members of Local 216-J, recently settled a new two-year contract. Wages were increased 3% effective 7/1/06 Another 3% pay increase is set for 7/1/07. Employees hired after 7/1/06 will pay 10% of the health and dental insurance premiums. Employees who waive health and dental insurance will receive a $200 per month stipend. Sick leave payout went from 75% to 100%. Other language improvements were part of the settlement.
OMRO. . .School district secretarial and custodial employees in two separate bargaining units, members of Local 1838 in Omro, recently ratified new two- year contracts. For secretarial shift wages were increased by 3% effective 7/1/06 with another. 1% pay increase scheduled for 7/1/07. Also for secretaries, the District will continue to pay 100% of the single health and dental insurance premiums and 95% of the family health and dental premiums (was 90%). The health plan was changed. The sick leave maximum accumulation for secretaries was increased from 120 to 140 days.
Custodial staff at the Omro School District received a wage increase of 50¢/hour on 7/1/06. Mother 60¢/hour is set for 7/1/07. This unit has a different health plan from the secretaries, with the District continuing to pay 100% of the single health and dental premiums and 90% of the family premiums. The sick leave maximum was increased from 120 to 130 days. Other language improvements were pan of the settlement
OCONOMOWOC
. . .City of Oconomowoc employees, members of Local 1747, recently ratified arid new three-year contract. Wages were increased 640/hour (3%) retroactive to 1/1/06. An increase of 82¢ (3.75%) per hour is set for 1/1/07. On 1/1108 wage rates will increase by another 85¢ (3.75%) per hour. Through 2006 the City will pay 105% of the state plan of health insurance. In 2007 the City will pay 98% of the single and family health insurance premiums. In 2008 the City will pay 95%. Sick leave language was improved. Language protecting jobs in the in the event of CDL loss was added.WAUPACA COUNTY. . .Highway Department employees, members of Local 1756, in Waupaca County recently ratified a new three-year contract. Wages were increased 3% retroactive to 1/1/05 and another 3% back to 6/1/05. The County agreed to continue paying 90% of the single and family health insurance premiums. Drug co-pays will increase 1/1/07 from $3 to $10 for generics and $25 for preferred name-brands. For that change, 5¢ will be added to wage rates. A new provision was added protecting a job or a leave of absence in the event that a worker loses their CDL.
July 2006IRON COUNTY. . .Highway Department employees in Iron County, members of Local 728, recently ratified a new three-year contract. Wages were increased 3% retroactive to 1/1/05. Another 3% pay hike was applied back to 1/1/06. On 1/1/07 there's another 3% wage increase set. The County will pay 90% of the single and family health insurance premiums. The Employer had been paying 92%, but the premiums actually went down this year. The Employer agreed to pay for the cost of obtaining CDLs. Nine (9) hours of floating holiday time was added along with an additional 9 hours of vacation time. Fifty percent (50%) of sick leave accumulated above the maximum will be put in a Post Employment Health Plan (PEHP).
HAMILTON SCHOOLS. . .Teacher aides in the Hamilton School District, members of Local 3086, have a new three-year contract. Wages were increased 3.25% on 7/1/06. Additional 3.25% wage increases are set for 7/1/07 and 7/1/08. Special Education Aides received an extra 10¢/hour on 7/1/06. The Employer had been contributing $450/month for health insurance. On 7/1/06 the Employer contribution went to $475. On 7/1/07 it will be $525/month, then $575 on 7/1/08. A new paid personal day off was added. Sick leave maximum was increased by 8 days. Emergency days and job posting language were improved.
MENOMONEE COUNTY. . .Human Service Professional employees who work for Menomonee County, members of Local 3972, have a new 2006-2007 contract. Wages were increased 2.25% retroactive to 1/1/06. Another 2.25% pay increase is set for 1/1/07. The County agreed to continue paying 85% of the single and family health insurance premiums. A new floating holiday was added. Funeral leave and on-call pay were improved.
NEILLSVILLE. . .DPW employees who work for the City of Neillsville, members of Local 546-C, recently ratified a new two-year contract. Wages were increased 2% retroactive to 1/1/06. A 1% wage increase was applied on 7/1/06. Next year, wages will go up 2% on 1/1/07 and 1% on 7/1/07. The City's payment of single and family health insurance premium went from 80% to 90%. The Employer will continue paying 100% of the single and family dental insurance premiums. Good Friday went from a half-day to a full-day holiday.
GREEN BAY. . .Parks Department employees who work for the City of Green Bay recently ratified a new two-year contract. Wages were increased 2.8% retroactive to 1/1/05. Another 2.8% was applied retroactive to 1/1/06. The Employer paid 92.5% of the health insurance premiums in 2005. In 2006 the City pays 90% of the premiums, but employees can reduce their share by 2.5% if they complete a health risk assessment (done on work time), a physical and a wellness program. The City will continue to pay 95% of the dental insurance premiums. The tool allowance went from $90/year to $235. Several language improvements were also part of the settlement.
ASHWAUBENON. . .The Telecommunicator Employees' Union, Local 1889, in the Village of Ashwaubenon, recently ratified a new 2006 contract. Wages were increased 3% retroactive to 1/1/06. The Employer agreed to continue paying 95% of the single and family health insurance premiums.
HOWARD-SUAMICO. . .Housekeeping employees at the Howard-Suamico School District, members of Local 3055, have a new two-year contract. Wages were increased 40¢/hour retroactive to 7/1/05. Another 45¢/hour was applied 7/1/06. The Employer agreed to continue paying 95% of the health insurance premiums.
August 2006MINERAL POINT. . .Employees who work for the City of Mineral Point, members of Local 1266-B, have a new two-year contract. Wages were increased by 45¢/hour (3% on average) retroactive to 1/1/06. Another 45¢/hour increase is set for 1/1/07. The City will continue to pay 105% of the lowest health care plan available. And the City will continue to pay 100% of the single and family dental insurance premiums.
WISCONSIN DELLS. . .Members of Local 1401-A who work for the Wisconsin Dells School District recently ratified a new one-year contract. Wages were increased 4.5% on 7/1/06. While the parties agreed to change the health care plan from a PPO to a HMO, the District agreed to increase its payment of the single and family premiums from 90% to 100%.
WAUNAKEE. . .Custodial and maintenance employees who work for the Waunakee School District, members of Local 60, have a new three-year contract. Wages were increased by 61¢/hour and 2.5% retroactive 7/1/05. New eight-year and twelve-year pay steps were added to the wage schedules. The Employer agreed to continue to pay 100% of the single health and dental insurance premiums and 90% for family coverage. A change in health insurance carriers was agreed to save costs. New comp time and snow day provisions were added. The early retirement insurance and uniform allowance provisions were improved.
MENOMONIE. . .Custodial and maintenance employees who work for the Menomonie School District, members of Local 727-C, have ratified a new two-year contract. Wages were increased 2.75% on 7/1/06. Another 2.75% increase is set for 7/1/07. Several language improvements were also part of the settlement.
WHITEWATER. . .City of Whitewater employees in the DPW, City Hall, and Library, members of Local 1145, recently settled their 2006-2008 contracts. Wages were increased in both bargaining units by 2.5% retroactive to 1/1/06. A 2% pay hike is set for 1/1/07 with another 2% coming on 7/1/07 for all classifications. In the last year, wages will increase 3% on 1/1/08. The City will continue paying 100% of the single and family health insurance premiums. The parties agreed to a high deductible insurance plan to go into effect on 1/1/07. However, the City will be contributing 50% of the high deductible plan's savings to the employees' Section 125 accounts. In the City Hall/Library unit, prorated fringe benefits were extended to part-time employees.
LINCOLN COUNTY. . .Courthouse employees in Lincoln County, members of Local 332-A, recently ratified a new two-year contract. Wages were increased by 10¢/hour at the top step of all classifications plus 3% across the board retroactive to 1/1/06. Another 3% wage hike is set for 1/1/07. The County pays all but $35 per month for family health insurance and all but $20 for single coverage. The vacation accrual schedule was improved by lowering the number of years needed to earn three, four, and five weeks of paid vacation. New Year's Eve went from half-day to full-day holiday.
September 2006FOND DU LAC. . .Custodial and maintenance employees who work for the Fond du Lac School District, members of Local 1366-G, have a new three-year contract. Wages were increased 3% retroactive to 7/1/06. Additional 3% pay increases are set for 7/1/07 and 7/1/08. The District will pay 95.5% of the single health insurance premium and 93.5% of the family premium. The District will continue to pay 100% of the single and family dental insurance premiums. The POS health plan was changed to the WEA Trust Select 2 plan. The parties agreed to a midterm contract reopener if the health insurance premiums increase more than 10% in the 2nd and 3rd years of the contract. Several language improvements were also part of the settlement.
PLATTEVILLE. . .Members of Local 823 who work for the utilities in the City of Platteville have a new three-year contract. Retroactive wage increases were 2% back to 1/1/05; 1% back to 7/1/05; and 2% back to 1/1/06. Another 1% was applied on 7/1/06. In the last year wages will increase 2% on 1/1/07 and another 1% on 7/1/07. The City's contribution for the single and family health and dental plans was 92% effective 7/1/05; 91% for 2006; and in 2007 the City will pay 90% for both insurances.
ADAMS COUNTY. . .Members of Local 323 representing Adams County Highway Department employees and members of Local 1168 representing Courthouse Employees and Human Services Professionals in separate units have new 2005-2007 contracts. Wage rates for everyone were increased 2% retroactive to 1/1/05 and 1% back to 7/1/05. The same 2%/1% split increase was applied for 2006. On 1/1/07 all wage rates in all three bargaining units will increase by 3%. In the Highway Department, the Office Manager and Office Clerk received an additional $1.25/hour upgrade. In the Courthouse, all Deputies received an additional 2% on 1/1/05 and another 2% on 1/1/06. The County agreed to continue paying 90% of the family and single health insurance premiums for current employees. Those hired after 1/1/06 will receive 85% premium payments, but a new insurance committee was established to secure savings which will be used to restore the 90% Employer payments for new hires. In the professional bargaining unit, on-call payments were increased by $1.25/hour for weekdays and $1.75/hour for weekends.
MUKWONAGO. . .School District Support Staff Employees in Mukwonago, members of Local 1101, recently ratified a new three-year contract. Wages in this wall-to-wall unit were increased 2.5% retroactive to 7/1/05 with another 1.5% applied retroactive to 7/1/06. On 7/1/07 wage rates will increase 1%. The District Agreed to continue paying 93% of the single and family health insurance premiums. For dental insurance, the District will continue paying 100% of the single and family premiums.
LINCOLN COUNTY. . .Pine Crest Nursing Home employees, members of Local 342, recently ratified a new 2006-2007 labor agreement. Wages were increased 3% retroactive to 1/1/06. Another 3% wage hike is set for 1/1/07. The County agreed to continue paying 95% of the health insurance premiums for single and family coverage. For services provided out of the plan's network, deductibles were increased to $500/single and $1,500/family; after that the employee pays 30% of the next $2,000 of covered out-of-network expenses. Funeral leave was improved by adding several categories of relatives for a three-day paid leave. Sick leave payout used for health insurance was increased from 70 to 80 days. Vacation was improved by adding 1 day for each year of service after 25 years with a maximum of six weeks.
IOWA COUNTY. . .Highway Department workers in Iowa County recently ratified their 2005-2006 contract. Wages were increased 2% retroactive to 1/1/05. Another 3.5% wage hike was applied back to 1/1/06. The County agreed to pay all but $14/month for single health insurance and all but $34/month for family coverage.
WOOD COUNTY. . .A group of 80 Licensed Practical Nurses were accreted to the existing Norwood Health Care Center bargaining unit represented by Local 1751. The new LPN members of the local will now receive all the benefits and job rights provided in the existing Local 1751 contract, including counting 32 hours/week as full-time for benefit level purposes. The maximum hourly rate for LPNs had been $17.46; effective 6/13/06, it went to $18.00. The County agreed to continue paying 90% of the single and family health insurance premiums.
October 2006OCONTO COUNTY. . .Highway Department, Courthouse and Professional Employees in Oconto County, members of Local 778, Local 778-A, and Local 778-D respectively recently won new 2005-2006 contracts in Interest Arbitration. The disputed issue in the three cases, which were voluntarily consolidated, was longevity pay. The locals proposed continuation of the status quo, which provides longevity pay worth 3% of monthly earning multiplied by years of service for employees with at least five years of service. The County wanted sharp restrictions on longevity pay for newly hired workers, but lost, just as the County lost in three similar Interest Arbitrations with our Oconto County members eight years ago. Staff Rep Dennis O'Brien represented our locals in the proceedings.
SAUKVILLE. . .Members of Local 108 who work for the Village of Saukville in the DPW and Utilities have a new three-year contract. Wages will increase 3% on 1/1/07. Additional 3% pay hikes are scheduled for the first of the year in 2008 and 2009. The Village agreed to continue paying 95% of the premiums for the single and family State Health Care Plan (100% for those hired before 1991). Vacation accrual was increased at most steps in the schedule, beginning with 21 days after 14 years to 25 days after 22 years. The HRA rollover was improved from 40% of unused balance to 50%. The comp time and safety shoe allowance were improved. CDL language was added to the contract.
WAUNAKEE. . .Members of Local 60 who work for the Village of Waunakee in a wall-to-wall bargaining unit recently ratified a new 2006-2008 contract. Wages were increased 3% retroactive to 1/1/06. Further 3% wage increases are set for 1/1/07 and 1/1/08. Several classifications received special pay increases through revamping wage schedules. The Village will pay 105% of the premiums for the single and family State Health Plan in 2006. In 2007 and 2008, the Employer will pay 100% and 97.5% respectively. Several Village classifications were voluntarily accreted to the bargaining unit. Several language improvements were also part of the settlement.
CITY OF FITCHBURG. . .City Hall Employees here, members of Local 60, have a new 3-year contract. Wages were increased 2% retroactively to 1/1/06. An additional 1% lift is scheduled for 12/1/06. Effective 1/1/07 wages increase 3.5%. Effective 1/1/08 wages increase an additional 3.5%. Currently the City contributes up to 105% of the lowest cost single or family health insurance plan offered through the state. Effective 12/1/06 the City will pay up to 100% of the lowest cost plan. Effective 1/1/08 the City will pay up to 97.5% of the lowest cost plan. The City continues to pay 90% of the single and family dental insurance.
November 2006WATERTOWN. . .Library employees in the City of Watertown settled their first contract with an Interest Arbitration victory. These new AFSCME members won a progressive wage schedule, catch-up raises, along with prorated fringe benefits for part-time workers who make up the majority of the bargaining unit. The average wage increase approved by the arbitrator was 15% over the contract’s 2005-2006 term. The City had offered only 6%. Staff Rep Larry Rodenstein represented the union in the Interest-Arbitration proceedings.
PLOVER. . .DPW and clerical employees in the Village of Plover, members of Local 309, have a new 2-year agreement. All wages will increase 3% effective 1/1/07. A 3.5% increase is scheduled for 1/1/08. The court liaison and the police secretary will receive an additional 25¢/hour lift effective 1/1/08. The Employer will continue to pay 90% of the single or family health insurance premiums.
OREGON. . .Food Service employees here, members of Local 60, have an approved 2-year contract. Wages increased 2.5% retroactively to 7/1/05. An additional 2.5% lift became effective 7/1/06. As part of the settlement all employees received a $200 lump sum signing bonus. The parties agreed to change the health insurance plan from a PPO to a HMO. The district will continue to pay 90% of the single or family insurance. Other changes include targeting post retirement insurance benefits to Medicare age rather than age 65 and no longer requiring employees to make up snow days.
RICHLAND COUNTY ARBITRATION VICTORY. . .Members of Local 3363 at the Richland County Pine Valley Health Care Center recently won a new two-year contract in Interest Arbitration. The arbitrator's award brought wage increases worth 2% retroactive to 1/1/05; another 1% back to 7/1/05; and an increase of 2.5% effective 1/1/06. The real issue in the arbitration was management's right to subcontract our work performed by Union members. The Employer sought new language that would grant it the unfettered right to contract out for work along with a side letter only acknowledging the Union's right to bargain the impact of such a decision. Local 3363 sought and won no change in the contract's Managemetn Rights clause which means the County must bargain with the Union concerning the decision to subcontract out work and the impact of such a decision. Staff Rep Jennifer McCulley represented Local 3363 in the proceedings.
SHEBOYGAN. . .Secretarial and clerical employees who work for the Sheboygan Area School District, members of Local 1750, recently settled back-to-back contracts covering five years. Wages were increased 5.4% retroactive to 7/1/06. Another 5.4% pay increase is set down the road on 7/1/08. After that, the next wage increase worth 2.75% on 7/1/10. Longevity pay was increased from 14% to 16% at the 25-year step. The Employer will continue to pay 100% of the single health insurance premium and 95% of the family premium. For dental insurance, the Employer will pay 90% of the single and family premiums. Small changes will be made in the health plan. Improvements were made in several paid time-off provisions. A new joint Reclassification Committe will be established to review a job evaluation study with possible upgrades implemented in 2008 and downgrades implemented only upon vacancy of positions. A Labor-Management Committee was set up on a trial basis to discuss possible contract changes during the terms of both contracts.
EAU CLAIRE. . .DPW, Water and Wastewater Department employees, members of Local 284, who work for the City of Eau Claire have ratified a new two-year contract. Wages were increased 2% retroactive to 7/1/06 with another 2% wage hike set for 7/1/07. The Serviceman classification in the Water and Wastewater Departments (nine workers) got an additional $1.00 per hour. The City agreed to continue paying 95% of the single and family health insurance premiums.
December 2006WATERFORD. . .DPW workers in the Town of Waterford, members of Local 67, recently ratified a new three-year contract. Wages were increased 3% retroactive to 4/1/06. Additional 3% pay increases are set for 4/1/07 and 4/1/08. The Employer has agreed to pay all but $40/ month for the family health insurance premium and all but $15/month for single coverage. (The employee’s share had been $20/month and $7.50/month, respectively.) The Employer agreed to continue paying 100% of the dental insurance premiums for single and family coverage.
MUSKEGO. . .Telecommunicator and clerical employees who work for the City of Muskego, members of Local 2414, recently ratified their new three-year contract. Wages were increased 2% retroactively to 1/1/06 and 1% back to 7/1/06. Additional 2.75% wage increases are set for 1/1/07 and 1/1/08. The deputy clerk/police clerk class received an extra 50¢/hour on 1/1/06 and 1/1/07. The court clerk classification got an extra 50¢/hour retroactive to 1/1/06. The Employer will pay 94% of the single and family health insurance premiums in 2006 (had been 95%), 93% in 2007 and 92% in 2008. However, there are dollar caps on the employee’s share each year, so the Employer may end up paying higher percentages. Comp time accumulation was increased to 64 hours. A new provision allows employees to apply sick leave to a tax-sheltered annuity to pay for health insurance in retirement.
KENOSHA COUNTY. . .Corrections officers and other staff who work in the Kenosha County Jail and Detention Facility have new back-to-back contracts covering 2005-2008. Wages were increased 0.5% back to 7/1/05 and 2.5% retroactive to 1/1/06. Further 2.5% wage increases are set for 1/1/07 and 1/1/08. Effective 7/1/08 a new 72-month pay step will be added bringing an additional 25¢/hour. The County agreed to continue paying 100% of the single and family health insurance premiums and 100% of the single and family dental insurance premiums. The dental benefits were improved. Second and third shift premiums were increased by 10¢ to 25¢ on second shift and to 35¢ for third shift by 1/1/07. Payment for retiree insurance was greatly improved. Mandatory overtime language was improved. Double overtime pay will be provided on 12/24, 12/25, 12/31 and 1/1 of each year.