SUNBURY - The union representing 77 Northumberland County transportation, maintenance, weatherization and clerical employees has approved a new contract with the county.
County Human Resources Director Joseph Picarelli confirmed Monday that the union voted in favor of approving a new three-year pact with the county Friday night. Picarelli said he couldn't release any details of the new contract until it is signed by the commissioners.
Efforts to reach Von Treas, business agent for AFSCME Residual 86, for comment were unsuccessful Monday.
Commissioner Chairman Frank Sawicki said contract ratification will probably be on the agenda at today's commissioners' workshop session. But it will need formal approval at the next bi-monthly commissioners' meeting on April 19.
"The commissioners will always bargain in good faith," he said. "I'm happy the contract is signed."
The union members, who have been working under a three-year contract that expired Dec. 31, 2009, had rejected the county's offer on a 38-2 vote on Oct. 28.
"I believe the commissioners and union did the right thing in settling the contract and I hope the rest of the unions will come to the bargaining table," Commissioner Vinny Clausi said Monday.
Three other union contracts involving county workers are expired and negotiations ongoing for new agreements.
Commissioner Merle Phillips said he believes the new contract will be good for both the union and county, especially considering the poor economic conditions that exist. Phillips said he didn't want to comment on any specifics until the commissioners sign the pact.