Contract Vote Update:
Now that the ballots are out for the Third Tentative Agreement (TA) of the Western WA AGC Master Labor Agreement and you will soon be reviewing the offer and casting your vote I wanted to relay some thoughts and perspective on the offer. First, I want to refer you to the compensation packages for both this TA and the new Master Labor Agreement of Western WA (MLAWW). Both of these agreements reflect some of the most significant compensation increases we have had in as far back as I can remember. In addition to our significant monetary increases, we also negotiated for the inclusion of some critical language changes relating to double-time after 12 hours of work and special shift premium.
I realize that there is some confusion about the impact on the two rates and how that will affect the members working under these two agreements. Simply put, public work will be prevailed at the higher of the two rates and private work will be paid at the contract rate that your contractor is signatory to. The new Prevailing Wage law that we were successful in passing last year, provides: “For trades and occupations with more than one collective bargaining agreement in the county, the higher rate will prevail.” At this time, the new MLAWW includes a rate that is higher than the TA.
With respect to the TA before you, I believe this TA reflects the highest financial offer the contractors are willing to make without further concessions on the language and retro pay. I am proud of this organization and the membership for taking a stand! The way we came together was phenomenal and, with the support of the other crafts, we were able to come back with a final counter offer that is worthy of your thoughtful consideration.
Thank you for seriously considering this TA and casting your vote.
In Solidarity,
Daren Konopaksi
International VP & Business Manager
