In June, members of amalgamated UE Local 274 who work as clerical and library staff in the City of Greenfield ratified a three-year contract that includes raises and improvements to holiday pay, job security, and workplace safety.
In the face of a city budget crisis, the members still won a two percent raise in the first year of the contract, 2.5 percent raise in the second year, and 2.5 percent in the third year. They also won better holiday pay which allows members to be paid for the full day rather than a prorated amount based on their average hours worked per week. The contract includes improved language that provides more job protection against being replaced by temporary or per diem workers. The members won a shift differential for working Saturdays and new stipends for specific duties that extend beyond standard job descriptions. The new contract also provides more protection for the members against prolonged payroll errors, establishes a minimum staffing policy for the library, and ensures scheduled closures for quarterly safety training.
The bargaining committee consisted of stewards Jesse Cole and Pamela McBride. They were assisted by International Representative Sherry Bryant.