By Tom Dalzell, Business Manager
Members of IBEW Local 1245 by a narrow margin have ratified an agreement with NV Energy that was negotiated with the assistance of a federal mediator. In a mail ballot counted on Aug. 12, the final tally was 239 yes to 216 no, with 2 voided ballots.
Our bargaining committee and members at NV Energy showed tremendous determination in fighting off the company’s worst proposals. From these results, we can see two things:
First, from the 77% turnout we see a highly engaged membership. Second, from the close margin we can see that our members were not happy with the company proposal, but were ready to move on.
If the company wants to repair the damage that it has done to employee morale and labor relations, it has a long way to go. It should be very clear to everyone that Local 1245 members at NV Energy were willing to fight very hard over the past 13 months to defend their rights and their standard of living, and will continue to do so going forward.
The issue of retiree medical is not resolved. Local 1245 will continue to support NV Energy retirees in their attempt to persuade the company on moral and ethical grounds to restore the benefits which the company reduced in 2009. Our Executive Board has recently authorized another $500,000 to spend on this campaign, and we will spend more than that if we have to.
Finally, thanks to our bargaining committee and members at NV Energy. You did us proud.
The official numbers:
Ballots Mailed: 591
Ballots Received: 457
Turnout: 77%
Yes: 239 (52%)
No: 216 (47%)
Void: 2