Members of UE Local 1161 made significant gains in their new two-year contract with Spartek. Following three weeks of intense bargaining the agreement was overwhelmingly ratified on December 3.
The contract includes wage increases of between 9.3 and 14.9 percent in the first year, and between 4.6 and 5.8 percent in second year. Shift differentials will increase to 75 cents for second shift and $1.00 for third shift.
Additional improvements include workers’ first paid sick day, reimbursement for steel-toe shoes up to $150 dollars once per year, and a holiday schedule that works for all three shifts. While on vacation during a holiday week, members will have a choice to save the holiday for future vacation day or to get paid an extra day.
These gains were made possible because member stayed united and stood strong, wearing t-shirts and stickers during negations.
The local did make a compromise with the company in allowing for 10 part-time employees, as the company is having a difficult time hiring employees. The part-time employees will receive half-time vacation, holiday, bereavement, and sick-day benefits but will not be eligible for health and welfare benefits. The union and company will revisit the part-time section in December 2022 and make changes if needed.
The Local 1161 negotiation committee consisted of President Sharry Neidfeldt, Treasurer Hilary Barnet, Brianne Clayton and Mark Ostrem. They were assisted by Western Region President Charlene Winchell.