Pincher Creek Mayor Don Anderberg adds his signature to a new four-year collective agreement with its employees. Wendy Cantonio, director of finance and human resources, was a member of the town’s bargaining unit. (Photo: Dave Lueneberg | Shootin’ the Breeze)Dave Lueneberg, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The Town of Pincher Creek and its unionized employees have signed a new collective agreement.

The four-year contract, which expires March 31, 2026, and is retroactive to April 1 of last year, has been welcomed by both sides.

“It’s always important to take care of the people that take care of you,” said Mayor Don Anderberg following the signing.

“We’ve always had a good relationship with our staff. They do great work in the community.”

Although the prior contract ended in the spring of 2022, the mayor is happy an agreement could finally be reached.

“Circumstances sometimes dictate the pace of negotiations, but everyone remained positive to make it happen,” he said.

“I really think the bargaining process went well. We had a few hiccups getting going,” said Shawn Darragh, president of CUPE Local 927, after he and vice-president Blake Edwards signed off.

“Issues were resolved. Questions were had. The conversation was great. I think the ability by both parties to discuss, to not butt heads, really aided the process along.”

Both Darragh and Anderberg would like to have seen a deal reached sooner.

“Like Don said, it would have been nice to get going a little bit earlier on it, and we’ll shoot for better next time,” Darragh said.

The agreement covers employees in public works, recreation and administration.

Details of the contract have yet to be posted on the Alberta CUPE website, but a wage increase was part of the new pact.

The MD of Pincher Creek came to terms with its employees, also members of CUPE Local 927.

By Dave Lueneberg, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Original Published on Oct 19, 2023 at 10:38

This item reprinted with permission from   Shootin' the Breeze   Pincher Creek, Alberta

Comments are Welcome - Use the 'Join the Discussion' above any replies, or 'TheRegional / Chat' below replies. Both links take you to the same place. You will be asked to become a registered user if you are not one already - Posts are moderated