Port Alberni, BC –The City of Port Alberni and their unionized workers, represented by the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) Local 118, have reached a three-year collective agreement.
The agreement was ratified by Local 118 members on Monday, March 31, 2025, and by City of Port Alberni Council on Tuesday, April 1, 2025. The new contract covers the period beginning January 1, 2024, and will expire on December 31, 2026.
“Through the recent mediation process, the parties have reached an agreement that is fair and equitable, based on the recommendations of the mediator,” said Mike Fox, City of Port Alberni CAO. The new agreement contains a wage increase of five per cent for 2024, four per cent in 2025 and 3.75 per cent in 2026. The agreement also contains improvements to benefits and some minor language changes in other areas.
“CUPE is pleased to see this process come to a close with a solid agreement in place that both parties deem appropriate,” said Stacy Watton, president of CUPE Local 118. “This three-year collective agreement provides labour stability within the workforce when it’s needed most, allowing for CUPE members to focus on delivering the best level of service they can within our community,” concluded Ms. Watton.
Negotiations have been underway since March 2024 with an overtime ban in place since February 2025. The overtime ban is now over.
“Council is pleased to see that an agreement has been reached and gives thanks to the union members and city administration that took part in the negotiation process,” said Sharie Minions, mayor of Port Alberni. “We look forward to continuing to support the good work our city employees provide,” concluded mayor Minions.
CUPE Local 118 represents approximately 230 full-time, part-time, and casual City of Port Alberni employees.
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Mike Fox, Chief Administrative Officer
City of Port Alberni
A City Hall, 4850 Argyle Street, Port Alberni, BC V9Y 1V8
O 250.720.2824 E mike_fox@portalberni.ca