Adopting a Resolution authorizing a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers – Outside Group for the calendar years 2026-2028.

The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers – Outside Group (IBEW-0), consists of approximately 98 non-exempt employees working in a variety of water and electric-related positions for Rochester Public Utilities.  The attached documentation outlines the proposed collective bargaining agreement changes, which primarily include:

•    Addition of an election of remedies clause to grievance procedures;
•    Probationary period clarification with probation extension language;
•    General wage adjustment of 4%, 3% and 2% for 2026-28 respectively;
•    Lineworker market adjustments of $2.50/hr for 2026; and $0.75 for 2027 supported by comparable providers;
•    A retention incentive Memorandum of Agreement for specific Power Resource positions;
•    Revised paystep advancement language;
•    Pay step eligibility and advancement language;
•    Revised after hours work language;
•    Addition of storm restoration pay language;
•    Revised mutual-aid pay language;
•    Standby language clarification;
•    Meal allowance increase;
•    Clarification of MSRS eligible pay outs;
•    Holiday changes;
•    Clarification of benefits eligibility;
•    Paid Family Medical Leave (PFML) premium split;
•    Clarification of ESST usage and limitations;
•    Simplified continuation of coverage language;
•    Revision of medical contributions; 
•    Limited Appointment Employee language; and
•    Increased water licensure payments.

The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers – Outside Group (IBEW-O) requested to negotiate the existing Collective Bargaining Agreement with the City, which expired on December 31, 2025.  In negotiations, the parties agreed upon the revisions contained in the attached Exhibit, which renews the contract for a three-year period. 

A Collective Bargaining Agreement with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers – Outside Group (IBEW-O), is adopted every three years.  Negotiations were held on October 29, 2025; November 21, 2025; and December 2, 2025.  Mediation was held on January 28, 2026; and March 12, 2026.  A Last Best Final Offer was issued in Mediation on March 12, 2026.

The negotiated terms and conditions of employment are similar to what has been negotiated with other bargaining units.  

No alternative actions are suggested at this time.