The Town of Amherst and its unionized public works and recreation staff have agreed on a new three-year contract, ending a brief round of talks that wrapped up May 27 at Town Hall.
Mayor Rob Small and CUPE Local 1233 President Kenny Lusby put their signatures on the deal Wednesday morning. The previous contract expired March 31, 2026, and the two sides needed just two bargaining sessions to find common ground.
The wage settlement works out to 10.5 percent over the life of the agreement, according to a statement on the Town of Amherst website. The contract also includes housekeeping updates and a new Letter of Understanding that commits both sides to work together on sick leave and attendance management.
“The management bargaining team met with the Local Executive on two occasions for negotiations and a new three-year agreement was reached,” the town said. Mayor Small praised both teams for their professionalism and collaborative approach.
Local 1233 represents the workers who keep Amherst’s roads, water systems, and recreation facilities running. The quick resolution removes uncertainty for residents who rely on those services every day.
