District of Squamish and CUPE 2269 workers reach a tentative deal after a two-week lockout; services and morale expected to recover once ratified.
Squamish Workers, District Reach Tentative Deal After Lockout
Deal Reached After Two Weeks of Disruption
A tentative agreement has been reached between the District of Squamish and CUPE Local 2269, ending a nearly two-week lockout that affected public services across the community. The deal, announced Tuesday afternoon, follows intensive discussions and mediation sessions aimed at restoring normal operations.
Union Seeks Fair Wages and Workplace Renewal
The local union, representing roughly 250 district employees, said details of the agreement will remain confidential until members review and ratify it.
Union president Celeste Bickford described the lockout as a “difficult chapter,” emphasizing that the new agreement is a key step toward rebuilding morale and improving workplace culture.
Wages Central to the Dispute
Negotiations centered on wage increases and cost-of-living concerns. CUPE 2269 initially sought a 4.5% raise for 2025 and 4% for 2026, while the district proposed a $27.50 hourly minimum for its lowest-paid workers, alongside general wage increases of 3.26% in 2025 and 2.99% in 2026.
A recent report set the 2024 living wage in Squamish at $26.76 per hour, underscoring the wage gap that contributed to the impasse.
District Expresses Optimism
The District of Squamish confirmed the agreement in a statement, crediting “extensive dialogue” for the breakthrough.
Mayor Armand Hurford said the deal represents “an opportunity to move forward together,” acknowledging the challenges faced by both sides since negotiations stalled in July.
Community Impact During the Lockout
Residents have experienced significant disruptions since the Oct. 16 lockout, including closures at Brennan Park Recreation Centre’s rink and pool. The lockout followed earlier union job action that began on Oct. 2, involving an overtime ban in public works.
Next Steps Toward Resolution
While both sides await ratification, picket lines will remain in place. Non-binding mediation through the Labour Relations Board of B.C. began Oct. 24, marking a turning point in efforts to restore services.
Once ratified, the agreement is expected to bring stability to municipal operations and signal a renewed partnership between workers and the district.
