For More Information Contact:
Marty Douglass, 341-1879
Eugene Water & Electric Board
May 12 , 2006
EWEB still optimistic about contract agreement
Eugene Water & Electric Board officials are disappointed that union-represented employees have voted to authorize a strike but remain optimistic that the utility and the union can avert a work stoppage by reaching agreement on a new labor contract.The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers could go on strike as early as May 22, based on a vote by IBEW-represented employees on Thursday, May 11.
“We remain hopeful that a contract can be successfully negotiated and agreed to by both parties,” said EWEB General Manager Randy Berggren. “EWEB has offered a fair proposal to the IBEW, including wage increases of over 4 percent for the next three years.”
EWEB also is committed to taking whatever steps are necessary to ensure the delivery of water and electricity to the utility’s customers, in the event of a work stoppage. The utility has developed contingency plans to continue operations with non-represented employees and contractors should the 155 EWEB employees represented by the IBEW choose to go on strike.
“Our top priority is keeping the lights on and the water coming out of the tap for our customers,” Berggren added.
The IBEW represents workers who repair and maintain electric lines, substations, the water system, power generation facilities, the water-treatment plant and other electric and water operational functions. The rest of EWEB’s 493 employees are not represented by the IBEW or any other labor union.
EWEB has proposed wage increases of 4.4 percent in 2006, 4 percent in 2007 and 4 percent in 2008, as well as other enhancements to benefits and working conditions. The IBEW has agreed to the wage increases. EWEB is not proposing any reductions in major benefits, including health care, and has agreed to several employee enhancements in the contract.
Two major issues remain unresolved: health care and holidays. The IBEW has proposed adding an additional holiday (Veterans’ Day) and wants to increase health care benefits, including reducing the overall premiums employees pay for medical, dental and vision insurance coverage. EWEB is proposing no changes to existing health care or holiday benefits.
The three-year wage increases proposed by EWEB would raise the journeyman line worker’s hourly pay to $35.71. EWEB has a policy of paying its employees above-average wages in all positions.
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