UTU Bus Department scored more election victories on November 5, 1999 and November 9, 1999

BUS DEPARTMENT NEWS

The LCA for AGI Group in Albany, NY on January 7, 2000, reached a new 3 year tentative agreement for the Custodians, Building Maintenance, Operations and Parking employees. Chairperson Ron Palka, and his Committee which consisted of Gary Hughes, Phil Britt, Joe Vecchio, Leon Ward and Judi Bessette did a great job in contract negotiations by working together and working hard in negotiations on behalf of their membership to reach the Agreement. The three year Agreement calls for an initial $1.00 per hour increase effective December, 1999 and another $1.00 an hour over the next two (2) years. The employees made significant gains in their 401 (k) plan where the Company contributed an additional $50 per month into the plan as well as an increase by the Company in the employees defined benefit pension plan. The Company increased the payment to employees for safety as well as expanding on who will now be entitled to a safety shoe reimbursement. The time frame for receiving vacations was reduced. There were also other improvements to the contract without any give back on the part of the members. New York State Director Sam Nasca played a major role in the negotiations as well. Vice President McNelis who assisted in the negotiations, congratulates the Committee for a job well done and to NYSLD Sam Nasca for his assistance. A vote on the contract will be conducted in January.