Tentative Agreement Reached - Citizens and CWA Local 7471

May 16, 2005

We have been advised that the Union and Citizens have reached a tentative agreement for employees of Local 7471.

The contract expired on May 15, 2005. CWA Staff Jay Boyle chaired the table. Below is a brief list of the highlights of the new three-year agreement if ratified by the membership. As is the case at all tables, health care was a critical issue for both on-roll and retired employees.

$.72 for all scales and all steps effective May 16, 2005.

2.9% increase in 2006 and a 2.9% increase in 2007.

All members in the unit today retained a defined pension.

All but 14 members retained Retiree Medical at the current caps. Those 14 were hired after January 1, 1995.

Obtained employment security for the life of the contract.

Upgraded Outside Plant Techs.

Increased Night Differential and increased On-Call pay.

The Union was not able to keep the 25% increases on medical cost out. The Company's last proposal wanted carte blanche on premium increases. The Union was able to bargain the 25% cap for premiums, co-pays and deductibles.