IAM Local 1363 members employed by the Catholic Diocese in Youngstown, Ohio have ratified their first collective bargaining agreement after 16 months of negotiations. The new contract marks a significant step for the workers, who are responsible for maintaining four cemeteries operated by the diocese.
“This agreement represents not only improved terms, but also the beginning of a renewed commitment to job responsibilities, accountability, and employment security,” said IAM Local 1363 Business Representative Robert Towslee.
Negotiations were described as challenging due to moments of disagreement and anti-union efforts from outside groups. “While the process included moments of disagreement and outside anti-union efforts, we remained steadfast and focused on our shared goals,” said IAM Local 1363 Directing Business Representative Timothy Verlinden. “Together, we achieved fair resolutions on wages, benefits, time-off accruals, and holidays.”
The Catholic Diocese in Youngstown serves more than 117,000 Catholics across northeast Ohio through its network of parishes and schools. The new contract affects about 30 workers at diocesan cemeteries.
Key provisions include wage increases ranging from 35% to 3%, depending on specialty and current pay rates. Workers will now receive 13 fully paid holidays annually. A joint health and safety committee has been established to address workplace concerns collaboratively. Existing employment benefits such as personal days, sick leave, vacation accruals, and retirement plans have been maintained under the new agreement.
“Standing up for your rights as workers for the first time is always challenging. I am so proud of these members of Local 1363 and what they have achieved with solidarity,” said IAM Eastern Territory General Vice President David Sullivan. “We look forward to more justice on the job for themselves and their families, and more job growth through unionism in the future.”
