Telecom News - Member Mobilization Key to Tentative Pact at Windstream

A new tentative agreement between CWA and Wind-stream Communications covering bargaining unit members of the former Valor Communications and Kerrville Telephone companies provides for significant wage hikes and a stronger grievance procedure, and preserves pension benefits for 500 workers. 

Windstream was formed in July 2006 by the merger of Valor, a regional local phone company, and Alltel's local wireline business. The employees (technicians, installers, retail sales reps, and cable splicers) work in Texas, Oklahoma, and New Mexico, and are represented by Locals 6171 and 7019.

The three-year agreement, now being voted on by members, provides an annual 4 percent wage hike and increases payments for differentials, overtime, and board and lodging expenses. It also preserves workers' existing pension plan and maintains medical insurance for retirees.

"These were tough negotiations, but the mobilization of Locals 6171 and 7019 made a big difference at the bargaining table," said CWA Representative Jerrell Miller, crediting Local 6171 President Allen Whitaker and Secretary-Treasurer Linda James and Local 7019 President Chris Rossi for energizing members throughout bargaining.

"The bargaining team did a tremendous job to meet the challenge of negotiating an agreement for workers covered under prior CWA agreements at Valor Communi-cations and Kerrville Telephone," said Telecommunications Vice President Jimmy Gurganus.