City and CUPE staff ratify new deal

The City of Kelowna and its employees, who are members of CUPE, have a new two-year contract agreement which goes into effect next January 1.

It provides for 4 per cent wage increases each year plus an additional 4 per cent next month.

“We are pleased to have finalized a new collective agreement before the current agreement expired. Securing a new collective agreement during these turbulent economic times provides some security for staff as well as citizens who rely on City services,” Stu Leatherdale, Divisional Director, Corporate & Protective Services, said. “The agreement ensures Kelowna can attract and retain the diverse and skilled work force we need.”

CUPE 338 includes about 850 members representing about 75 per cent of the City of Kelowna’s workforce. The workers are responsible for delivering a number of services, ranging from roadways maintenance to financial analysts to water quality to planning and development services.

“Over the past few years, inflationary pressures have been challenging for CUPE 338 members,” Ross Whalen, CUPE Local 338 President, said. “With the immediate 4 per cent followed by two annual 4 per cent increases, this agreement is a start to addressing the rising costs of living in terms of wage increases over the next contract.”