Heather Wright/The Independent

As the saying goes, the third time was the charm.

Waterville TG workers, members of the UAW Local 251, accepted a three-year deal during a membership meeting Saturday. It was the third vote on a proposed contract since June.

June 8, 85 per cent of UAW Local 251 workers at the auto parts plant turned down an offer from the company. Then July 6, workers were called to the UAW Hall in Wallaceburg for a vote on a second offer. This time it was rejected by the slimmest of margins, only 54 per cent according to sources.

Saturday, the “majority” of the membership came out to a third ratification vote and passed a sweetened, proposed deal.

Local 251 President, Bill Pollock, says workers will get a 8.75 per cent pay increase this year, retroactive to November. The Local 251 workers then get a three per cent increase in both 2026 and 2027.

The union leader didn’t offer any insights into why the larger increase in year one, saying only; “You always try to get as much as you can for the membership” Workers at the Petrolia plant told The Independent union wages had not kept pace with increases in Ontario’s minimum wage and the increasing cost of living.

Pollack says the financial package had not changed since the July 6 meeting but says the company did offer a $1,000 signing bonus. There is also improved vacation pay for those employees with 20 years and more of service to the company.

Upwards of 275 people work at the plant which produces automotive sealing systems.