Erie County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz has announced that an agreement on a new six-year contract has been reached between Erie County and the New York State Nurses Association (“NYSNA”). The new pact, approved by NYSNA membership on Tuesday July 3, includes raises of 2.0% in 2020 – 2023, along with a raise of 3% in 2019. For 2018 the contract will add $1,500 to members’ base wage for which NYSNA members will receive retroactive pay to 1/1/19. As a result of the ratification all Erie County employees who are represented by bargaining units are currently under contract.

“I thank the NYSNA membership for coming to the table and working with us on this agreement,  which carefully balances the need to attract and retain quality nurses to serve the citizens of Erie County while respecting taxpayers,” said Erie County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz. “Along with modest pay increases this agreement provides increased incentives for nurses to receive additional training, thereby improving the quality of care which they provide. It also provides for flexibility in staffing, supervision, and scheduling that will better allow the County to meet the unique needs of the Erie County Department of Health and the Erie County Sheriff’s office.”

Commissioner of Labor Relations Gary Wilson added, “This contract is the result of good-faith negotiations on both sides of the table, with a result that is good for workers and doesn’t break the bank for county taxpayers. NYSNA nurses provide vital services for county residents every day and this realistic and responsible contract provides fair compensation for those services.” 

Other upgrades include expanded vacation leave, a uniform allowance, improvements to shift differential, and the addition of two additional longevity steps. The new agreement covers the period between January 1, 2018 and December 31, 2023.

Since taking office in 2012, the Poloncarz administration has successfully negotiated 16 contracts with bargaining units representing county employees.

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