After reaching a tentative agreement between the District of Squamish and CUPE 2269 workers, picket lines are still active. The agreement was disclosed by Local 2269 on Tuesday, pending ratification by members. According to CUPE, details of the agreement will be shared after member approval.
Celeste Bickford, the president of CUPE 2269, expressed that the lockout has been a challenging period for both the district and its workers. Bickford emphasized the importance of the tentative agreement in rebuilding workplace culture and boosting staff morale to enhance service delivery to residents, businesses, and visitors.
In their negotiations, the union requested a 4.5% wage increase for 2025 and a 4% raise for 2026. On the other hand, the district proposed a $27.50 per hour minimum wage for the lowest-paid employees, along with a 3.26% increase in 2025 and a 2.99% raise in 2026 for all other positions.
A report indicated that the living wage in Squamish for 2024 stands at $26.76 per hour. The District of Squamish confirmed the tentative agreement on Tuesday afternoon, expressing gratitude for the extensive discussions that led to the compromise. Squamish Mayor Armand Hurford commended the agreement as a step towards progress.
Negotiations between the district and the union hit a stalemate in early July after the collective agreement expired on December 31, 2024. The district initiated a lockout on October 16, affecting workers in public works, city hall, and two auxiliary offices following job action by the union, including an overtime ban.
Mediation through the Labour Relations Board of B.C. commenced on October 24 in an attempt to resolve the dispute. The community has already felt the impact of the lockout, particularly with the closure of the rink and pool at Brennan Park Recreation Centre. Picket lines are to be maintained until both parties officially approve the agreement.
