Select Board ratifies United Steelworkers memorandum, approves funding for multiple union agreements

The Select Board reviewed and approved a memorandum of agreement with the United Steelworkers Sept. 28 that covers a three‑year term and was ratified by the union membership. Town staff characterized the unit as comprising department heads and assistant department heads (approximately 17 positions) rather than tradespeople; the agreement includes cost‑of‑living adjustments of 3%, 1% and 2% across the contract term.

Town staff said the memorandum included cleanup language and a new benefit package affecting take‑home pay; the board moved, seconded and voted to authorize the town administrator to sign the MOA. Related warrant articles were presented to appropriate $31,784.74 from the collective bargaining stabilization fund for the USW FY27 costs and similar appropriations for other bargaining units were placed on the warrant.