Squamish workers approve new contract, ending nearly 2-week municipal lockout

After almost two weeks on the picket lines, Squamish municipal workers will return to work Thursday following the ratification of a new collective agreement between the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) Local 2269 and the District of Squamish.

The deal was reached through non-binding mediation facilitated by the B.C. Labour Relations Board and officially ends the lockout that had shuttered local facilities, including the community’s only ice rink and swimming pool.

“There’s still a lot of work to do to address the ongoing recruitment and retention challenges the District faces, and to ensure the long-term sustainability of service levels,” said CUPE 2269 president Celeste Bickford in a statement.

Terms of the Agreement

The three-year contract provides:

• A 3.75% wage increase in 2025,

• 3.25% in 2026, and

• 3% in 2027.

The agreement also introduces living wage increases for the district’s lowest-paid employees and market adjustments across six job classifications to address hiring and retention struggles.

A joint committee will be created to explore alternative scheduling models that promote better work-life balance — a growing concern among public-sector employees across B.C.

Background and Dispute

The lockout began in mid-October after contract talks stalled. CUPE 2269 had originally sought wage increases of 4.5% and 4% for the first two years, citing the region’s rising cost of living.

The district countered with an offer of a $27.50 hourly wage floor for the lowest earners, alongside smaller percentage increases — 3.26% in 2025 and 2.99% in 2026 — for other workers.

As negotiations dragged on, the dispute led to widespread service disruptions that frustrated residents.

“The last few weeks have been very difficult for everyone involved,” said Squamish Mayor Armand Hurford. “Our priority now is to welcome employees back and to resume stalled public services as quickly as possible. We thank residents for their patience during this time.”

Looking Ahead

While both sides say the agreement is a step forward, they acknowledge more work is needed to stabilize staffing and maintain community services in one of B.C.’s fastest-growing municipalities.

With the new contract in place, municipal operations — including recreation programs, maintenance services, and administrative functions — are expected to return to normal in the coming days.