Over 100 members of UFCW Local 152 who work at United Methodist Communities at The Shores assisted living facility in Ocean City, N.J., ratified a new contract on August 21 that increases wages and improves benefits. These members are employed as certified nursing assistants, licensed practical nurses, receptionists, maintenance, cooks and dietary aides.
The new three-year agreement provides a retroactive across-the-board wage increase, in addition to increases each year for the life of the contract. In an effort to reward longtime members for their service, the contract includes a tiered longevity increase program, something the membership has requested for years. The contract also includes an increase in shift differentials for the nursing staff and a ratification bonus.
In addition to these economic improvements, members will also see enhancements in health care benefits. The contract reinforces that the employer pays the cost of any mandatory health examinations, tests, and vaccinations, and increased the yearly shoe allowance. The contract also includes language changes for better clarification of policies regarding the New Jersey Earned Sick Leave for the use of sick time at no penalty to the members and maintained affordable health insurance for the life of the agreement.
Members of the Negotiating Committee included Director of Collective Bargaining Dan Ross; Director of Field Services Peggy Kelly; Director of Organizing Chad Brooks; Union Representative Matte Kane; Special Project Union Representative Pete White; and Shop Stewards Dana Belton, Karen Russell, and Jamie Toledo.
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