Drake Union to Start Contract Negotiations in November
The union representing facility staff will begin formal talks for a new contract ahead of its December 31 expiration.
Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in Unions
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The union representing facility planning and management staff at Drake is set to begin contract renegotiations in November 2026. These talks come as the current contract, which was signed in 2023, is scheduled to expire on December 31, 2026.
Why it matters
The outcome of these negotiations will determine the future of compensation and benefits for essential staff members, including custodians, grounds workers, and HVAC mechanics. If an agreement is not reached, the contract stipulates that the process will move to mandatory arbitration.
The union, affiliated with the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades District Council 81, represents a range of facility planning and management roles. Negotiations are slated to occur throughout November and December 2026.
The players
International Union of Painters and Allied Trades District Council 81
This regional labor organization supports and represents workers in various trade and facility management roles.
Jackie Fortin
A long-term employee who has served as a custodian at Drake for 20 years.
The details
Representatives are focused on securing guaranteed annual wage increases for their members and clarifying contractual language regarding vacation time. Any final agreement reached between the union and Drake administration will require a vote of approval from the union membership.
Timeline
The current union contract was originally signed in 2023.
Formal negotiations are scheduled to begin in November 2026.
The existing union contract is set to expire on December 31, 2026.
Political Context
Opponents or budget hawks often argue that guaranteed wage increases can limit institutional flexibility during economic downturns. These critics typically advocate for performance-based bonuses rather than fixed, multi-year salary mandates during contract renewals.
Residents and students may experience changes in service levels or facility maintenance schedules depending on the outcome of these negotiations. The final contract terms will likely influence how the facility allocates its budget for campus support roles in the coming years.
The takeaway
Labor negotiations require careful preparation as both sides balance employee retention with operational sustainability. Staff members should stay informed through their representatives to ensure they understand the timeline for ratification votes.
Further reading
For more on local labor relations, see Unions.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Times-Delphic.
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