SEIU Local 33 secures new three-year contract for maintenance and custodial staff

In a recent meeting of the Barnstable County Assembly of Delegates Standing Committee on Public Services, significant discussions centered around a new union contract with the Service Employees International Union (SEIU). This contract, which spans three years from July 2024 to July 2027, covers maintenance and repair personnel, as well as custodians within the facilities department, totaling 16.5 employees, including part-time staff.

The contract comes after a period of negotiation, during which employees worked without a formal agreement from July 2024 until early 2025. The new agreement includes a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) and a step increase, which is a common practice in union contracts that rewards employees for their tenure and performance. Specifically, the contract stipulates a 2.5% increase retroactive to July 2024, reflecting the union's efforts to secure better compensation for its members.

This contract is particularly important as it addresses the needs of essential workers who maintain the county's facilities. By ensuring fair wages and benefits, the agreement not only supports the employees but also enhances the overall quality of public services in Barnstable County. The discussions highlighted the ongoing commitment of the county to uphold labor relations and provide adequate support for its workforce.

As the contract takes effect, it will be crucial to monitor its implementation and the impact on employee morale and service delivery. The committee's focus on these issues underscores the importance of labor relations in maintaining effective public services in the community.