When the City of York-owned Wastewater Treatment Plant sale was submitted to the PUC for final approval, Local 776 Business Agent Spencer Dearth knew the Local needed to act fast to preserve jobs and protect the members by negotiating a new contract. In mid-December, a negotiating committee was formed and began negotiations with PA American Water Company through the holidays and January. Negotiating committee and membership meetings were scheduled on weekends to expedite the process. On Friday, February 4^th, a tentative agreement was reached between the parties and presented for a membership vote on Saturday, February 12^th. By unanimous vote, the members ratified the Agreement effective the day PA American Water Company takes ownership and control of the plant, tentatively expected in April 2022. The Agreement contains provisions such as a substantial pay increase, double-time for work performed on a holiday, paid lunches and breaks, premium overtime language, and daily job protection with eight-hour guarantees.

York City members stand united with Local 776 BA Spencer Dearth (Center with arm raised) after unanimously ratifying a new bargaining agreement with the future owner of the Wastewater treatment plant.