The city of Williams Lake and the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 882-B will be back at the negotiating table on Feb. 12.
Both sides were in Vancouver on Friday, Feb. 1 in front of the Labour Relations Board (LRB) to set essential service levels in the event of job action by the union representing city workers.
A mediator met with both sides throughout the day as they attempted to reach agreement on essential services however no final conclusion was reached. The two parties have since continued to work on an agreement and are awaiting a final ruling from the LRB.
The city said it is encouraged that discussions are moving forward.
“The Ccty is extremely pleased that negotiations are resuming and we are hopeful that a settlement can be reached as soon as possible,” said general manager of planning and operations, Geoff Goodall. “The city is aware that these processes can be stressful and we are doing everything we can to negotiate a fair package for our employees in acknowledgement of their excellent work. At the same time we must address the needs of the taxpayer who wish to keep costs sustainable as we move forward,” Goodall added.
Union service representative John Dube told the Tribune the city has hired someone to bargain on the city's behalf.
"It's good news that there is a willingness to go back and talk," Dube said.