Solidarity at Kennedy Valve Pays Off for Local 329

Elmira, Ny

UE Local 329’s insistence that Kennedy Valve bargain jointly with both unions in its Elmira, New York plant ultimately led to a new four year agreement.

Local 329 members work in the foundry, while the International Association of Machinists (IAM) represents machine shop workers. With bargaining stalled and a strike looming, the company reluctantly agreed to bargain jointly with the two unions.

As a result of the joint bargaining, the new contracts for both unions significantly improve wages, pensions and benefits. Wages increase by 75 cents in the first year, with additional improvements of 25 cents in each of the next three years. Pension benefits are improved in the first year of the contract by almost 15 percent.

Health insurance costs were a major stumbling block, as negotiators anticipated a 60 percent increase in premiums during the four year contract span. Due to these escalating costs, Local 329 members reluctantly agreed to establish employee contributions ranging from $8 per week in the first year to $38 per week in the final year. But despite paying more for health insurance, Local 329 members for the first time will now have vision care coverage and improved prescription drug coverage.

In addition to the new healthcare coverage, shift premiums and disability insurance were also significantly improved. For the first time, the new contract establishes an annual safety shoe allowance.

The agreement was overwhelmingly ratified on June 3.

The UE committee consisted of Local 329 Pres. Kevin Elmquist, V.P. Bud Decker, Sec. Ken Leupelt, Dan Pfuntner, Ron Pfuntner, and UE Intl. Rep. Gene Elk.