Lorain County Children's Services workers secure better contract deal

As the strike by Lorain County Job and Family Services employees extends beyond two months, County Commissioners have approved a new contract for members of UAW Local 2192 employed at Lorain County Children Services (LCCS). This new contract is notable for surpassing the Commissioners' usual wage increase pattern.

"This is a victory that demonstrates what workers can achieve when they stand strong at the bargaining table," stated UAW Region 2B Director David Green. He added, "Unfortunately, their siblings at Job and Family Services can't get a fair deal. County Commissioners like Jeff Riddell are refusing to even come to the table and bargain in good faith with UAW Local 2192 members at JFS."

On April 20, UAW Local 2192 members at LCCS, who handle investigations concerning child abuse and neglect, ratified a three-year agreement effective retroactively from January 1, 2026. This agreement ensures the welfare of the county's most vulnerable children.

Initially, the County Commissioners proposed a "pattern" for General Wage Increases (GWI), aimed at maintaining salary increases of 4.5%/3.5%/4% over the contract's duration. However, with the shift of healthcare costs onto workers during a period of significant inflation, UAW Local 2192 members negotiated GWI rates of 4.5%/5.5%/2%, providing more immediate financial benefits.

"When we stand strong, we negotiate from a position of strength," Director Green commented. "When we hold the line, we win."

Beyond the restructured wage increases, the contract includes additional benefits such as an extra personal day off. To address health and safety concerns for caseworkers using personal vehicles, the contract also adds $400 for auto-related expenses. Additionally, long-serving support staff with over ten years of service will receive a 2% retention supplement.

Meanwhile, UAW Local 2192 members at Job and Family Services remain steadfast in their strike, awaiting the County's willingness to engage in equitable negotiations similar to those conducted for Children Services employees.