In a remarkable turnaround from previous negotiations, UWUA Local 270 and the City of Berea, Ohio, reached a new contract agreement for water treatment workers in just four hours — a stark contrast to the 14 months it took to finalize their first contract in 2021.
“I don’t know that there has ever been a more extreme difference in negotiations,” said Chris Ericksen, president of Local 270. He credits the swift resolution to a changed dynamic at the bargaining table, with new city representatives showing greater recognition of the workers’ value.
The new three-year agreement includes substantial improvements in compensation and benefits. All pay grades will receive 4% annual increases, while higher-qualified positions secured an additional 3% equity adjustment — resulting in a 15% total increase over the contract term for the most qualified operators.
More paid time off was a top priority among the nine-member unit, and the new agreement includes an additional 104 hours of frontloaded holiday time, which workers can use flexibly throughout the year.
Division Chair Aaron Dusky, Vice Chair Crystal Bics and Recording Secretary Andrew Verbus joined Ericksen and UWUA Region III National Representative Frank Meznarich on the negotiating committee. Together, they effectively highlighted Berea’s challenge in attracting qualified water operators. “Local 270 represents members in a couple of different water departments. In the past, Berea’s wages were not competitive with other municipalities,” Ericksen noted. He said that perception is about to change, with the city agreeing to reward workers who pursue additional certifications and qualifications and raising starting rates to attract new workers.
The contract was ratified by an overwhelming majority, marking a new chapter in labor relations at Berea’s water treatment facility.