GRCA, OPSEU Local 259 ratify collective agreement
GRAND RIVER – The Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) board and OPSEU Local 259, which represents about 103 GRCA employees, have voted to ratify a new collective agreement.
“This agreement reflects the collaborative efforts of both bargaining teams and supports a fair, equitable and competitive approach, while remaining fiscally responsible and focused on the long-term strength of the organization,” stated John Challinor II, GRCA chair.
The newly ratified agreement provides employees with a wage increase of 2.7 per cent in 2026 and 2027, as well as a special adjustment of 1.3% this year and 0.3% in 2027.
The GRCA has planned for the financial commitments associated with this collective agreement through its budget process.
The newly ratified collective agreement will expire on Jan. 31, 2027.
Ontario’s conservation authorities are scheduled to amalgamate into new regional conservation authorities on Feb. 1, 2027.
On that date, the GRCA will merge with three other conservation authorities to form the Eastern Lake Erie Regional Conservation Authority.
