After a year-long bargaining process, Drivers and mechanics working at Heidelberg materials Ferndale and Bellingham locations voted unanimously to ratify their first ever Teamster collective bargaining agreement. These workers knew it wouldn’t be easy to gain the compensation, benefits, and respect they deserved, but they were not willing to settle until they achieved their goals. After months of contentious negotiations, and unanimously authorizing a strike, they now have a Teamster contract that provides significant wage increases, health & welfare coverage for their entire families fully paid by the employer, and a secure retirement with the Western Conference of Teamster Pension. In addition, the contract secures daily overtime, seniority provisions and numerous other protections. “The fighting spirit of these new members is commendable, and we are honored to have them join our ranks”, said Local 231 Secretary-Treasurer, Rich Ewing.