Details of a new deal between the City of Portage la Prairie and the Canadian Union of Public Employees, Local 1002 (CUPE 1002), are being shared.

Both sides reached a three-year collective agreement that took effect on January 1. The new three-year agreement covers the period from January 1, 2024, to December 31, 2026, and affects all City of Portage la Prairie CUPE 1002 workers.

It will provide a general pay rate increase of 4 per cent effective January 1, 2024, 3 per cent effective January 1, 2025, and a percent increase effective January 1, 2026. The deal was ratified by CUPE members on November 8, 2023, and approved by Portage City Council on December 13, 2023. 

Mayor Knox and City Administration met with CUPE representatives last Friday to sign the agreement.

"I am thrilled to participate in the signing of the collective agreement with our CUPE employees," says Portage Mayor Sharilyn Knox. "Council and City Administration place great value and importance on our dedicated workforce, who work tirelessly to keep our city running smoothly. Our CUPE employees play an integral role in delivering essential services to our residents, and their hard work and commitment deserve to be recognized and celebrated. This agreement not only ensures fair treatment and benefits for our employees, but also demonstrates our commitment to fostering a positive working environment that promotes collaboration and mutual respect."

Mayor Knox notes that the City of Portage would not be the same without all the city workers' hard work and dedication to making Portage a better place.