Town of Oakville and CUPE 136 ratify new collective agreement

Last night, Town Council voted unanimously to ratify the four-year agreement with Local 136 of the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), the union representing more than 285 outside workers and facility operators. This followed the ratification by CUPE 136 members on Saturday, November 11, 2023. 

Details of the four-year agreement include: 

• a 12.75 per cent wage increase over a four-year term.  
• a $750 lump sum payment in 2023. 
• a new healthcare spending account benefit starting in 2026. 
• the addition of a new compassionate care leave salary top-up benefit. 
• increases to meal allowance, tool allowance, shift premiums, and medical note reimbursements. 

Other key outcomes achieved include significant enhancements to vacation entitlement including vacation service credit for new hires and existing employees, and the addition of National Day for Truth and Reconciliation to the list of statutory holidays. There was also clarification on the use of temporary staffing in Recreation and Culture, 12-hour shifts for winter operations, use of stand-by and hours of work, and new market value adjustment language to assist with recruitment and retention. 

The town recognizes and appreciates the efforts of CUPE 136. Their contributions are integral to making Oakville a vibrant and livable community for all.  

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“I want to thank the members of our bargaining team and our union for their hard work in coming to an agreement. The deal approved by Council considers the well-being of our employees, supports attraction and retention, respects taxpayers and ensures our ability to provide reliable, high-quality service to our community. Getting this deal took dedication and hard work. I am proud of all our employees and the services they provide to our residents and businesses. I look forward to continuing our valuable work and providing the excellent programs and services our community has come to expect from the Town of Oakville.”  

– Jane Clohecy, Chief Administrative Officer, Town of Oakville