Elk Grove reaches five-year labor deal with public works union

Elk Grove Village officials announced Tuesday they have reached a five-year contract with the union that represents 39 of the village's public works employees.

The contract will be placed on the Dec. 8 village board agenda for formal approval.

Under the deal, workers will receive annual raises of 2.5% in 2021, 2023 and 2025, and 2.25% pay hikes in 2022 and 2024.

The Public Works Department maintains water and sewer utilities, public streets and rights of way, urban forestry and land, and other critical infrastructure. The department also is responsible for engineering the design of public improvements.

"This is a win-win for taxpayers and our employees," Mayor Craig Johnson said in an announcement of the deal. "One of the reasons we are so effective in delivering top notch services to our residents is because we enjoy strong relationships with the unions that represent so many of our critical employees."

"This contract agreement was only made possible with the respect and understanding shown by everyone involved," union representative John Wesa added. "We look forward to continuing our goal of providing quality services to the residences and business community of Elk Grove."