Workers at Watsonville Community Hospital Ratify New Contract with Teamsters Local 853Workers at Watsonville Community Hospital Ratify New Contract with Teamsters Local 853 Watsonville, California, July 3, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Workers at Watsonville Community Hospital have overwhelmingly approved a new three-year contract with Teamsters Local 853. The agreement includes significant wage increases, expanded health care coverage, and a per diem plan. Significant Pay Raises The new contract includes substantial wage increases, bringing the hospital’s workers closer to industry standards. This victory marks a major improvement for employees who have faced financial struggles in recent years. Teamsters Health Care Coverage For the first time, Watsonville Community Hospital Teamsters will be covered by the union’s comprehensive health care plan. This coverage provides access to high-quality medical care, addressing a long-standing concern for employees. Per Diem Plan The contract also includes a new per diem plan, offering employees flexible work options and additional income opportunities. Landmark Agreement “This agreement is a significant victory for our members,” said Steven Lua, President of Teamsters Local 853. “It marks the first time that Watsonville Community Hospital Teamsters have been able to secure substantial wage increases since the hospital went bankrupt three years ago.” Hospital Preservation Local 853 played a pivotal role in saving the hospital from closure, protecting both the community and the jobs of its members. The union’s lobbying efforts were instrumental in securing government support that ensured the hospital’s continued operation. About Teamsters Local 853 Teamsters Local 853 represents over 15,000 workers throughout California and Nevada. For more information, visit teamsters853.org. Contact: Matt McQuaid (202) 624-6877 (email address provided) SOURCE Teamsters Local 853
Workers Get Significant Pay Raises, Teamsters Get Health Care Coverage
WATSONVILLE, California., July 3, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Workers at Watsonville Community Hospital, represented by Teamsters Local 853, have voted unanimously to ratify a collective bargaining agreement. The new three-year contract includes significant wage increases, a strong benefits package with Teamsters health care coverage and a per diem plan.
“We have been working for six months to improve wages and benefits for our members and have been successful,” said Steven LuaPresident of Local 853 in Oakland. “The road to this day has been long and winding, but we made it happen. Congratulations to these members on this hard-fought victory!”
The 45 Teamsters covered by the new agreement work as receptionists, process planners, telephone operators, counselors, clerks and other professional staff in the operations department.
“This victory is extra special because it marks the first time that Watsonville Community Hospital Teamsters have been able to secure substantial wage increases after the hospital went bankrupt three years ago,” Lua said. “Local 853 fought hard to save the hospital, not just to protect our members, but to protect the entire community. So today, we celebrate not only this great new contract, but the success of the lobbying effort to keep the hospital afloat and support a community where so many other Teamsters live and work.”
Teamsters Local 853 represents more than 15,000 workers at more than 250 employers throughout California And NevadaFor more information, visit teamsters853.org.
Contact:
Matt McQuaid(202) 624-6877
(e-mail address)
SOURCE Teamsters Local 853
