Community centres and arenas closed as Oakville outside workers and facility operators go on strike

CUPE 136, the union representing the town’s outside workers and facility operators have officially gone on strike effective November 2, 2023. 

Impacted facilities and services during a strike 

Some of the Town of Oakville's facilities and public services are affected by the strike. The town has plans in place to limit the disruption as much as possible and ensure that essential service delivery, and health and safety related matters are prioritized.  

The following facilities are closed until further notice:

• Community centres and arenas  
• Washrooms in parks  
• Leash free dog parks  
• Field house at Bronte Athletic Park   

Other impacts include: 

• Recreation and culture rentals and programs are cancelled.
• Loose leaf collection is suspended on residential roads. Service will continue only on primary and secondary roads. 
• Some other services offered by parks, and roads and works operations will also be at reduced capacity.

Town Hall including ServiceOakville, libraries (including those operating out of community centres), Sir John Colborne Recreation Centre for Seniors, Oakville Museum at Erchless Estate, and the Oakville Centre for the Performing Arts will remain open. Oakville Transit will continue to operate. The town also offers many services online.  

For updates on the labour disruption and a list of impacted services visit the Labour Relations page. Information will also be shared on the town’s social media channels and with the media. Residents are also encouraged to stay up to date by subscribing to the town’s newsletter and visiting the News and Notices page. 

Quote    

“We value the work of our CUPE 136 employees. They provide very important services to the residents and businesses of Oakville. We are disappointed that CUPE 136 has decided to commence its strike. However, we are willing to return to the bargaining table for meaningful conversations about the issues that led to the impasse provided we have a partner who is also open to these conversations to substantially bridge the gap between the parties and reach a deal.” 

– Jane Clohecy, Chief Administrative Officer, Town of Oakville.  

 Quick Facts   

• CUPE Local 136 represents the town’s outside workers and facility operators, and is the town’s second largest bargaining unit, with more than 285 members in various roles.  
• After numerous days of bargaining since April 2023, negotiations reached an impasse last month. 
• On Monday, October 30 the union notified the town they are proceeding with a strike as of 12:01 a.m. on November 2, exercising the first opportunity to strike. 
• Last month, the union rejected the town’s offer, which included overall wage increases worth 12.75 per cent over four years, significant enhancement to vacation entitlement as well as increases to shift premiums, meal and tool allowances, plus the introduction of compassionate care leave top up payments.