Update: District responds to 96 per cent strike mandate for Coldstream workers

Update

The District of Coldstream is disputing claims made by the union representing its unionized staff after a break down in bargaining.

CUPE local 626 members have voted 96 per cent in favour of strike action, and are asking for a mediator to be appointed by the B.C. Labour Relations Board to try and resolve the impasse.

The District issued the following news release this morning:

“In response to the statements made by CUPE Local 626 regarding the recent strike vote, the District of Coldstream disagrees that CUPE has been presented with unacceptable demands at the bargaining table. The District has tabled proposals to the union which provide for average wage increases that are equal to or greater than recently negotiated settlements of local governments in the Okanagan Valley. The District of Coldstream looks forward to reaching a settlement of the collective agreement with the assistance of a Labour Board mediator,” said the release sent by Chief Administrative Officer Trevor Seibel.

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Original

Unionized workers in the District of Coldstream have voted 96 per cent in favour of strike action.

Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) local 626 President Bryce de Dood said they are facing unacceptable demands from the district with wages lower than surrounding communities and below the provincial average for municipalities.

“Just like many residents across the Okanagan, our members are struggling with affordability challenges due to rising housing and other living costs,” de Dood said. “The employer’s proposal would lock us into an agreement that lowers our wages relative to other municipalities, and our members cannot afford to move backwards.”

CUPE has applied to the B.C. Labour Relations Board to have a mediator appointed in the hopes of resolving the dispute without a disruption in services to the community.

“We remain hopeful that a resolution can be found at the bargaining table given that we are simply seeking parity with wage increases granted to other municipal workers across the region,” de Dood said.

De Dood added the District has also demanded a longer term than proposed by the union, a move the union claims would amplify the negative impact of the employer’s proposed below average wage settlement.

CUPE 626 members working at the District of Coldstream include front-line services staff, finance and accounting professionals, RCMP clerks, utility and equipment operators, parks workers, planning technicians, mechanics and other tradespeople.

Vernon Matters has reached out to the District of Coldstream for comment.

Chief administrative officer Trevor Seibel says the District will have an official response issued on Tuesday.