AFSCME Local 2206 Members Ratify Strong New Contract with Erie City

Members of AFSCME Local 2206 representing Erie City employees overwhelmingly ratified a new collective bargaining agreement, securing what members describe as the fairest and most equitable contract the unit has achieved since the late 1990s. The agreement was ratified unanimously on March 4, 2026, following months of organizing, negotiations, and a powerful contract campaign led by union members.

More than 90% of eligible members participated in the ratification vote, demonstrating the unity and solidarity that ultimately drove the successful outcome.

“This contract proves what workers can accomplish when they stand together,” said Local President Angela Stankiewiz, who chaired Local 2206's negotiating team. “Our members showed up, stayed engaged throughout the process, and made their voices heard. Solidarity made this victory possible.”

The path to ratification began months earlier when members unanimously rejected the City’s ‘last, best, and final’ offer in December 2025, sending a clear message that workers were prepared to stand together for a better agreement

Following that vote, AFSCME members on the negotiating team intensified their contract campaign by organizing members, holding meetings, and emphasizing the importance of union solidarity and participation.

Negotiations resumed on February 26 and 27, 2026, ultimately resulting in a tentative agreement that dramatically improved the contract.

The agreement was unanimously ratified, reflecting strong support from the membership and a clear recognition of the gains achieved through collective action. Members credited the contract campaign and strong turnout with helping deliver a historic agreement.

The new agreement includes significant improvements to wages, benefits, and workplace protections. The contract provides meaningful pay increases, preserves affordable healthcare with no cost increases during the agreement, and ensures employees receive health and dental benefits starting upon hire. 

Union leaders also emphasized that the victory reflects the importance of political engagement and electing leaders who support working families.

AFSCME members played an active role in supporting Erie’s new administration and believe that engagement helped create an environment where productive negotiations could occur. In Mayor Daria Devin's first few months in office, she has proven to be a true friend of labor and a true leader for the city.

“Elections have consequences,” Local Officer and Negotiator Courtney Lowe told fellow members during the ratification meeting. “When workers organize, vote, and stay engaged, they can help create leadership that respects public employees and values the services they provide to the community.”

Following the ratification, several members committed to becoming more involved in future organizing and upcoming state elections, further strengthening AFSCME’s presence in the region.

None of these gains would have been possible without the strength and activism of the membership. From rejecting the initial proposal to turning out in record numbers for the ratification vote, members demonstrated that solidarity and collective action remain the foundation of union power.

“This contract shows exactly what happens when workers stand shoulder to shoulder,” President Stankiewiz said. “Together, we fought for a fair contract — and together, we won.”

AFSCME Local 2206 represents Clerical, Office Personnel, Maintenance and Technical Employees, of the City of Erie. Congratulations on your contract victory!