MontCo Workers Win 13% Increase in Tentative Deal

(Metropolitan Washington Council, AFL-CIO)Montgomery County workers have struck a tentative deal that ends several years of wage freezes and benefits cuts. The agreement – which must still be ratified by UFCW 1994 MCGEO membership and approved by the County Council --includes more than 13 percent in cost-of-living and longevity increases over two years, as well as increased job security and improved health and safety language. The raises for most of the local’s 5,000 members would be the first in four years. "After years of budget battles, contentious bargaining and wage freezes,” said UFCW 1994 MCGEO President Gino Renne, “this agreement is a welcome recognition of the dedication and hard work of our members who deliver top rate services to the community."