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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Spokane Valley machinists ratify labor agreement

From staff reports

Members of a machinist union have ratified a three-year contract with ASC Machine Tools in Spokane Valley that provides raises and increased retirement benefits, union officials said.

Members of the Machinists Union Local Lodge 86 approved the agreement Tuesday with a 65-percent yes vote. Local 86 represents 99 hourly workers at ASC, who build specialized tools and machines used in the metal building, can manufacturing and metal stamping industries worldwide.

The contract provides for 2.5 percent raises the first year, a 2 percent raise in the second year and a 2.5 percent raise in the third year. The company will also increase contributions to the workers’ 401(k) retirement accounts and allow union members to take cash advances of up to $500 for purchases of tools, work clothes or boots

In addition, the company will implement the paid sick leave standard mandated by Initiative 1433, which was approved by Washington voters in November. That will increase the rate at which ASC workers can accrue sick leave.

“We’ve got a good deal here,” said Allen Eveland, a Local 86 union steward who served on the bargaining team. “It’s just over all a good contract for three years.”

Local 86 is part of Seattle-based Machinists Union District Lodge 751.