BIDDEFORD — The Amalgamated Transit Union Local 714 and Biddeford, Saco, Old Orchard Beach Transit  have reached terms on the first ever collective bargaining agreement  between the parties. The CBA was ratified Jan. 27 by the BSOOB Transit Committee, after a unanimous employee vote on Jan. 24.

Negotiations began in August, and after many productive sessions, the ratified agreement provides wages increases and retains quality health coverage.

“It is important that the organization recognizes the value provided by each and every employee,” said BSOOB Transit Executive Director Chad Heid. “The wage and compensation package in this contract are an investment in the stability of our workforce and a way to show respect to our front-line employees.'”

The BSOOB Transit Committee approved package for the union includes pay increases across all union positions and an enhanced deferred compensation contribution from the employer. The new top rate for a bus operator will increase to $23 per hour, with 4 percent increases scheduled for all union positions in the next two fiscal years. Wages increases will be retroactive to the beginning of the current fiscal year.

“I am very proud of the leadership on both sides of the negotiation. This contract came together in the middle of a pandemic and will keep our transit services operating reliability and safely,” said BSOOB Transit Committee Chair Greg Tansley.

BSOOB Transit is the public transportation provider for the Biddeford, Saco, Old Orchard Beach communities. Services operate seven days a week throughout these municipalities and provides connections to Scarborough, Maine Mall, and Portland.