Union of 350 University of Vermont service workers approves new contract

The union that represents about 350 University of Vermont service workers has ratified a new contract.

The union that represents UVM's custodians, electricians, grounds workers, bookstore clerks, shuttle bus drivers, mechanics, plumbers and other workers approved the new three-year contract earlier this week.

The contract provides an 8 percent pay raise over the three years of the contract.

Employees making less than $15 an hour will face no increased health insurance costs. People making above that level will see increases between 2 percent and 3.2 percent.

The union says negotiations, which started in March, were contentious at times but the new agreement achieved key goals of the membership.

Union local President David Hamilton said the agreement is one which "we can build on in the future."