More than 640 members of IAM Local 660, East Alton, IL have overwhelmingly approved a new five-year contract agreement with brass and copper product manufacturer Global Brass and Copper, also known as Olin Brass.
The new agreement, which covers an additional 110 workers from seven different unions, includes general wage increases of three percent each of the first two years of the union contract, a 2.5 percent increase for each of the third and fourth years, and three percent the fifth year. Members will receive yearly pension increases throughout the life of the agreement and a $1,000 ratification bonus.
The company has also agreed to participate in the IAM District 9 Health and Welfare plan, effective January 1, 2018.
“This was a tough negotiation,” said IAM District 9 Business Representative and lead IAM negotiator Ann Ballesteros. “But with the strength, solidarity and hard work of each union and their committees we came out with a good package for all of our members.”
“Congratulations to the members of IAM Local 660 and the entire Bargaining Committee on a job well done,” said IAM District 9 Directing Business Representative Mark Conner. “And welcome to the District 9 Health and Welfare plan. Founded in 1949, the District 9 plan takes pride in the individualized attention that we give to all of our members. We look forward to bringing you into the plan.”
“Congratulations to the members of IAM Local 660 on the ratification of your new contract,” said IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President Philip J. Gruber. “Thank you to the Bargaining Committee for your strength and hard work, and thank you to Ann Ballesteros and Mark Conner for your leadership.”
