Local 533 Members Win Significant Pay
Increases, Improved Benefits
RENO,
Nev., May 23, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Members of
Teamsters Local 533 have overwhelmingly ratified a new five-year
collective bargaining agreement with Waste Management. The contract
covers over 250 workers who service the communities of Lyon, Storey,
and Washoe counties.
"I want to congratulate our members and the negotiating
committee for their unity and perseverance, which ultimately
secured such a strong contract," said Debbie Calkins, Secretary-Treasurer of Local
533. "Our members stuck together and won life-changing wage and
pension increases, along with top-notch Teamsters health care
benefits."
"This contract is a testament to the strength of rank-and-file
Teamsters and the importance of collective action," said
Gary Watson, President of Local 533.
"It clearly demonstrates the difference between union and nonunion
workers and will undoubtedly serve as a stepping stone for
organizing other waste workers in our region."
The new agreement provides an immediate $4 wage increase upfront and an additional
$1.25 per year over the length of the
contract. In addition to a substantial pay increase, the contract
increases pension contributions by $1.25, secures a fair bidding process that is
based on seniority, and provides first-class Teamsters health
care.
"We made clear to the company that we were serious and prepared
to fight for what we deserve," said Delbert
Lopez, a 46-year Teamster, and Waste Management mechanic.
"This was my first time sitting on a negotiating committee, and I
was impressed by the entire process. Our unity won significantly
higher wages and improved benefits for all."
Chartered in 1934, Teamsters Local 533 represents about 2,500
workers in various trades throughout northern Nevada and eastern California. For more information, go to
teamsters533.org.
Contact:
Daniel
Moskowitz, (770)
262-4971
dmoskowitz@teamster.org
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SOURCE Teamsters Local 553