WMU trustees approve new three-year contract with AFSCME

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Acting during a special conference-call meeting Monday, Aug. 20, the Western Michigan University Board of Trustees unanimously approved a three-year contract with Local 1668 and Council 25 of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees union. The new contract is effective through Aug. 12, 2021.

The union's 418 members include employees who work in building maintenance and custodial capacities, dining services, landscaping, and several other roles.

Under the new agreement, members will see wage increases in each year of the contract. Increases will vary each year based on the pay grade level of an employee's position.

In the first year of the pact, increases of 1.5 to 2.5 percent will be provided. In the second year, the contract calls for increases of 1.75 to 2.5 percent, and increases between 2 and 2.5 percent go into effect for the third year of the contract.

Other elements of the new agreement include changes in employee health care premium contributions as well as health care plan modifications.

In another action, trustees also granted WMU officials authority to negotiate terms with the city of Kalamazoo for a temporary easement to University property. The easement will allow for the construction of a sidewalk expanse on the eastern side of Howard Street between West Michigan Avenue and Stadium Drive.

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