Potential Labour Disruption

How many City of Hamilton employees belong to HOWEA?
The Hamilton Ontario Water Employees Association (HOWEA) currently represents 55 City of Hamilton employees.

What City services do HOWEA employees provide?
HOWEA employees are part of Hamilton Water in the positions of Water/Wastewater Operators, Millwrights, Electricians, and Instruments and Control Technicians.

Will well maintenance and water testing still be conducted?
Well maintenance and water testing services continue without interruption.

Can I still get permits and access to Hamilton Water programs?
Yes. Hamilton Water Storefront Operations (330 Wentworth Street) will continue to provide essential services, including the sale of permits, appointment scheduling, and the sale of waste hauler and water truck tickets. These services will be available both in person at the storefront and over the phone. Purchases made over the phone must be completed using a credit card.

If HOWEA goes on strike, what City services will be impact?
The City has contingency plans to maintain critical facilities operations and ensure the continued delivery of water and wastewater services in the event of a labour disruption. 

• The operation and maintenance of water and wastewater treatment facilities will continue uninterrupted.
• The City will continue to monitor the drinking water and wastewater systems.
• The collection of all regulatory drinking water and wastewater samples will continue, as well as response and investigation to reported spills.
• Waste Haulers will be redirected from Woodward Avenue to the Upper Ottawa Waste Transfer Station.
• Hamilton Water Storefront Operations (330 Wentworth Street) will continue to provide essential services, including the sale of permits, appointment scheduling, and the sale of waste hauler and water truck tickets. These services will be available both in person at the storefront and over the phone. Purchases made over the phone must be completed using a credit card.