UE Local 222/CILU-CIPU scored a huge victory today (Feb. 8) in an election involving workers at the Department of Public Works. Nearly 80 percent of the 130 ballots cast named UE as the collective bargaining agent for the workers in the unit.

The workers approached the UE after becoming dissatisfied with their previous union affiliation. The vote gave workers a choice between Local 222, the other union, and none of the above.

The unit represents 151 workers, 103 of whom cast their votes for UE. Organizers said the results surpassed even their expectations.

"This is a rewarding and historical moment for the employees," said town yard worker and organizing leader Michael Kyek, aftere the votes were tallied. "With the election behind us, it’s time to get to the serious business of the union."

The present contract runs through 2009, giving the workers three years of continued collective protections, while determining the path they want to take as rank-and-file leaders now that they are affiliated with UE Local 222.