Plumbers and Fitters Local 290 have come to terms on an economic package covering the last three years of their six-year collective bargaining agreement with the Plumbing and Mechanical Contractors Association.

In March, members of the union unanimously rejected the contractor association’s proposal for a $4.01 an hour cut over the remaining three years of the pact. Conversely, the union was seeking a $6.15 increase.

Under terms of the contract ratified in 2003 (which called for a wage reopener in 2006), all disputes would be settled by the national Industrial Relations Council for the Plumbing and Pipefitting Industry. The council consists of four business managers from UA locals and four signatory contractors.

The council met last month in Savannah, Georgia, where it ruled unanimously for an increase of $3.60 an hour over the remaining three years of the Local 290 contract.

Plumbers and fitters received a 65 cent raise June 1, and will get another 35 cents on Oct. 1, 2006; 65 cents on April 1, 2007; 60 cents on Oct. 1, 2007; 75 cents on April 1, 2008 and 60 cents on Oct. 1, 2008.

Local 290 members will meet each February to decide how to distribute the annual increase.

As of June 1, 2006, the total hourly wage and benefit package for plumbers and fitters was $49.28. By Oct. 1, 2008, that will increase to $52.53.

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