WESTLOCK – Westlock County and CUPE 3007 have ratified a new three-year collective agreement, which will be in effect retroactively from Jan. 1, 2024, through Dec. 31, 2026.
The new agreement includes wage increases of 1.25 per cent retroactive to Jan. 1, 2024, followed by a 1.75 per cent increase in 2025, and a two per cent increase in 2026.
"CUPE is pleased that we reached a settlement with the county that was overwhelmingly accepted by our members," said Lou Arab, communications representative for CUPE in Edmonton, in an email on Jan. 7.
Discussions about the agreement were held behind closed doors by Westlock County council during a meeting in December before council voted in favour of the terms. In a statement, Westlock County confirmed that negotiations had been ongoing since October 2023.
In addition to wage increases, the agreement includes several key updates. These include enhanced leave provisions, updated training and development program language and requirements, and an increased allowance for personal safety footwear. A 90-day probationary period for all classifications has also been established, as well as the provision of emergency communication devices for workers in areas with poor cellular service.
Westlock County has 38 unionized employees. Their jobs include equipment operators, public works, agricultural, protective services, and a variety of administrative roles.
