Workers in Berlin, PA, Ratify New Three-Year Contract

RWDSU members working for the Berlin Borough street crew have overwhelmingly ratified a new three-year collective bargaining agreement. The contract delivers critical improvements to wages, safety equipment, and family security for the workers who maintain the borough’s essential infrastructure.

Members L-R; Jake Housel, Chad Lowery, Ron Fochtman, Daniel Deaner, Raymond Dean Oakes, Terry Rhodes

The three-year agreement is anchored by significant annual pay increases to help members keep pace with the rising cost of living. Under the terms of the new contract, workers will see a $1.00 per hour increase in the first year, followed by $0.75 per hour increases in both the second and third years.

Beyond the general wage hikes, the contract recognizes the specialized skills required for municipal maintenance. The agreement includes increased differential pay for CDL holders and Backhoe operators, ensuring that members are fairly compensated for the technical expertise and certifications they bring to the job every day.

Additional gains in the ratified contract include:

Increased Life Insurance Benefits: Providing greater peace of mind and financial security for members and their families.

Enhanced Boot Allowance: An increase to the annual allowance for work boots, ensuring that the crew has the high-quality safety gear necessary for demanding outdoor labor.

The ratification of this agreement marks a major win for the Berlin Borough street crew, reinforcing the power of collective bargaining in securing a stable future for essential municipal workers.