That means that the municipality would be in a position to serve a formal lockout notice as early as Tuesday, Sept. 2.
CAO Kalen Hastings says this decision came after nearly one year of bargaining with the Alberta Union of Provincial Employees (AUPE).
He explains that AUPE has rejected the Town’s latest and final comprehensive offer, is making “unreasonable” demands, and has applied to hold a strike vote.
Hastings says there is a widening gap between AUPE’s expectations and the economic realities borne by those who work in the private sector.
“It is clear that AUPE and its members are unwilling to moderate their demands,” says Hastings. “Their decision to pursue a strike vote only confirms this. The lockout poll ensures we are on solid legal ground to take the next step. More importantly, it puts taxpayers on notice that the Town is prepared to draw a line and protect the long-term financial health of our community.”
The Town of Coaldale’s final offer made what Hastings describes as “a few modest rollbacks,” but would increase pay by 17 per cent over four years, as well as the following provisions:
12 paid sick days
12 paid statutory holidays
Four weeks of paid vacation after two years of service
One paid personal day off / year
A $1,000 annual health spending account
100% employer-funded health and dental benefits
Participation in the LAPP pension plan
Standby pay of $60 (weekday), $90 (weekend), and $125 (statutory holiday)
2.5X the normal hourly rate for working on a statutory holiday
A $3 / hour shift differential for working evenings and weekends
A $250 per year winter boot allowance
A $250 per year safety boot allowance
Five paid days of parental leave after the birth or adoption of a child
Major Jack Van Rijn says this is not where he, nor anyone else at the Town of Coaldale, wanted contract talks to go.
LNN has reached out to AUPE for comments.