BAINBRIDGE – It might be a surprise to you that the four members of Bainbridge’s Highway Department have joined the Teamsters Union, but it was not a surprise to the town supervisor.

“It was only a matter of time,” said Supervisor Rick Chase. “Most area highway employees around us are now union. At the moment they offer a very comprehensive medical insurance package which attracts the workers.”

According to the Teamsters Local 693, of which the Bainbridge crew is now a member, the union has over 40 contracts specifically with highway departments in their local coverage area.

It was not a major dispute that prompted the four members of the Highway Department staff to contact the union, according to Teamsters Local 693 President Roberta Dunker, but rather concern about the future and access to the Teamster’s exceptional health insurance coverage.

“In today’s climate, without having a union, you really stand alone,” said Dunker. She and Chase worked together to draft the contract between the town and the highway employees. Both said they were pleased with the results of the 6 month negotiation.