Labor and Management Working Together to Achieve a Successful 4‑Year Labor Agreement
May 2026
The Sanitary District of Decatur (SDD) and the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) Counsil 31, Local 268 reached an agreement to extend the Collective Bargaining Agreement through 2030 one day before the existing agreement expired. This achievement was made possible by the dedication of the negotiating teams from both the labor and management sides of the table.
A Proactive Approach
For sanitary districts, maintaining uninterrupted service is essential to protecting public health, safeguarding the environment, and supporting the community. One of the most effective ways to ensure operational stability is by reaching a fair and sustainable multi‑year labor agreement before the current contract expires.
A proactive, collaborative approach to negotiating a long term agreement helps prevent disruptions, strengthens labor relationships, and supports long‑term planning for both the district and its workforce.
This hasn’t always been the case with many labor negotiations dragging on up to a year past the expiration of the existing contract.
Why a Timely Agreement Matters for a Sanitary District
Sanitary districts operate critical infrastructure—wastewater treatment, collection systems, and environmental compliance—where reliability is non‑negotiable. Finalizing a labor agreement ahead of expiration provides several key benefits:
✔ Continuous Public Service Avoids the risk of interruptions that could impact wastewater operations, regulatory compliance, or environmental safety.
✔ Workforce Stability Gives employees confidence in their compensation, benefits, and working conditions, leading to higher morale and retention.
✔ Budget and Rate Planning Supports accurate long-term financial planning, which is especially important when managing taxpayer or ratepayer funds.
✔ Strong Labor-Management Partnership Reinforces a culture of respect, collaboration, and shared responsibility to the community.
How was this Accomplishment Achieved
- Focusing on Shared Mission: Serving the Community
Unlike private-sector negotiations, sanitary district labor discussions are grounded in a shared public mission. Keeping this shared purpose front and center fosters cooperation and helps guide decision-making.
- Using Data to Inform Decisions
Objective information helps build trust and leads to fair, balanced agreements.
Key data points include:
- Comparable wages and benefits in similar public utilities for specialized positions and the general market for more common positions
- Cost trends for basic cost of living items such as food, housing, utilities and transportation
- Workforce productivity and staffing levels
- Regulatory requirements and compliance costs
Data-driven discussions minimize conflict and keep negotiations focused on facts.
- Maintaining Open and Transparent Communication
Consistent communication is essential throughout the negotiation process.
- With Employees: Provide regular updates and reinforce transparency
- With Governing Boards: Ensure alignment with financial and policy objectives
- Between Bargaining Teams: Encourage open dialogue and timely issue resolution
- Stick to an established negotiation timeline with target milestones
- Address key issues early rather than delaying difficult conversations
Clear communication builds trust and prevents misunderstandings.
4. Considering the Total Employee Experience
Labor agreements go beyond wages alone. Value is created by addressing:
- Dependable health and retirement benefits
- Safe working conditions and updated equipment
- Training and professional development opportunities
- Work-life balance and scheduling flexibility
Investing in employees supports retention, safety, and quality of service.
Conclusion
Achieving a four‑year labor agreement before the current one expires is a strategic investment in stability, service, and community trust. By preparing early, working collaboratively, and focusing on shared goals, districts and their employees can build agreements that support both organizational success and public well-being.
A proactive approach ensures that essential services continue uninterrupted—today and for years to come.