Middlesex County has officially ratified a new collective agreement with its workers, marking the conclusion of negotiations between the county and the union representing its employees. The agreement, which was finalized on July 10, 2026, covers wages, benefits, and working conditions for the next three years.
Details of the Agreement
The new contract applies to approximately 500 workers employed by Middlesex County in various departments, including public works, social services, and administration. According to county officials, the agreement includes a 2.5% wage increase in each year of the contract, effective retroactively from January 1, 2026. Additionally, workers will receive improved health and dental benefits, as well as enhanced provisions for overtime and shift premiums.
“This agreement reflects our commitment to fair compensation and a positive work environment for our employees,” said Middlesex County Warden Cathy Burghardt-Jesson in a statement. “We are pleased to have reached a deal that balances the needs of our workforce with the fiscal responsibilities of the county.”
Union Response
The union representing the workers, the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) Local 1234, also expressed satisfaction with the outcome. “Our members voted overwhelmingly in favor of the new contract,” said union president Mark Smith. “We believe this agreement provides stability and recognizes the hard work of county employees.”
The ratification comes after several months of bargaining, with both sides citing constructive dialogue as key to reaching a deal. The previous collective agreement expired on December 31, 2025.
Impact on County Services
County officials confirmed that the new agreement will not result in any immediate service disruptions or changes to public programs. The financial impact of the wage increases and benefit improvements has been accounted for in the county’s 2026 budget, which was approved earlier this year.
Middlesex County, located in southwestern Ontario, provides a range of services to its residents, including road maintenance, social housing, and emergency planning. The county employs workers across multiple facilities, including the Middlesex County Building on Ridout Street in London.
