IBEW Local 1837 members at Black Bear Hydro have unanimously ratified a five-year contract, which includes a $5,000 signing bonus, increased wages, and other enhanced benefits.
“This is a great contract, with no takeaways for the membership” said Renee Gilman, Assistant Business Manager of IBEW 1837. “I’d like to thank our team for their hard work, and a special thanks to Black Bear steward Keith Ouellette for his input in our meetings. It definitely made a difference.”
In addition to the signing bonus, the contract features progressive pay increases over the next five years of 6 percent in 2023, 5 percent in 2024, 3.5 percent in 2025, 3.5 percent in 2026 and 5 percent in 2027.
The new contract addresses callouts and overtime, ensuring appropriate compensation. Furthermore, the contract emphasizes employee wellness and professional development. Sick days in the bank have increased to eight from six.
Improvements have also been made to the vacation plan. New hires will start accruing vacation immediately upon hire at four hours per pay period, up to a maximum of 80 hours. Employees with 1-2 years of service will receive two weeks (80 hours) of vacation. Those with three to eleven years of service will enjoy three weeks (120 hours). Employees with 12-19 years of service will benefit from four weeks (160 hours) of vacation. Five weeks (200 hours) of vacation will be granted to employees with 20-23 years of service. Employees who have dedicated 23 or more years to Black Bear Hydro will receive six weeks (240 hours) of vacation.
IBEW members at Black Bear Hydro operate hydroelectric dams in the following locations: Ellsworth, Milford, Orono, Stillwater, Medway and Howland. Together, the dams produce about 36 megawatts of electricity.