“We Deserve to Live Where We Work": WGME-TV Employees Demand Fair Pay and Better Conditions

PHOTO: WGME workers at an informational picket on Monday. Photo by IBEW 1837.

Members of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 1837 at WGME-TV (CBS 13) gathered near the television station in Portland on Monday morning for an informational picket. The members, which include Photographers, News Producers, Directors, News Editors, Assignment Editors, Operating Technicians, Maintenance Engineers, and Creative Producers, are fighting for better pay and working conditions in their contract negotiations with Sinclair Broadcast Group.

The picket, held on Washington Avenue near the corner of Allen Avenue, was prompted by Sinclair’s willingness to meet only once since early September. While holding signs with messages like “Fair Wages at WGME” and “Be Fair Sinclair,” union members emphasized their commitment to securing a meaningful contract that values their contributions.

"We're out here today to make our voices heard," said Chief Steward Jack Amrock. "WGME employees pour their hearts into their work, serving the public with integrity and pride. We just want a contract that acknowledges our daily efforts. It's time for Sinclair to offer proposals that respect our work and let us afford to live in the state we love."

The current contract between IBEW Local 1837 and Sinclair Broadcast Group, is set to expire on December 7th. The company, which has a history of delaying, agreed to meet with the union for two short days in October, but did not meet with the workers until this week. Following the picket, the workers met with the company on Monday and Tuesday for its second bargaining session and agreed to a three-month contract extension to March 8, 2025, to avoid a strike before Christmas.

Rising costs of living in Portland, including skyrocketing housing prices and everyday expenses, have added urgency to the union’s push for wages and benefits that allow workers to thrive. Many employees face the tough reality that they can't afford to live in the communities they serve so diligently.  According to the union, the company's wage proposal is far too small and it refuses to recognize that its wages are too low, and the members are angry.

"These folks are the backbone of this station. They are talented journalists and production staff who take pride in telling Mainers' stories," said Business Representative Kaitlyn Hegarty. "They work tirelessly to deliver the quality journalism that WGME-TV viewers rely on every single day. They deserve a contract that not only acknowledges their professional excellence but also lets them afford to live and raise their families right here in Maine."

Hegarty added that the union will be back at the table with the company in January, but if they don’t get a deal before March 8th, they will be back where they started.

IBEW Local 1837 represents nearly 50 members at WGME-TV and more than 1,600 workers across Maine and New Hampshire in industries including Broadcasting, Utilities, and more.