10/28 PCL Bargaining Update
/Strike Authorization Vote Results:
The PCL Bargaining Team asked our members for the power to call a strike. You all answered with a resounding YES! With a strong majority of members already counted we currently sit at 95% support for Strike Authorization. While some in transit ballots are not yet counted, there are far too few votes pending to change the outcome. A detailed account of voting will be communicated early next week when any and all lagging ballots have been received. The PCL Bargaining Team thanks Portland City Laborers for the faith they have placed in the team and their fellow PCL members.
10/25 Bargaining Session:
Despite marginal movement on some topics, Tuesday’s bargaining was again defined by a rejection of Union articles. The City said no to fully covering healthcare premiums. They said no to increased compensation for shift differentials. They said no to restoring lost retirement benefits. They said no to double time on forced overtime. City negotiators have committed to providing their response on wages over the next two weeks. Portland City Laborers say NO to the status quo the City has put on the table. If the City does not show serious consideration of member’s needs with their upcoming proposals it will be time for us to move beyond the table to see our needs get met.
Rallies and Pickets and Labor Actions:
While Strike Authorization is a big step in ramping up pressure on City management, it is only one step. To win a contract worthy of our members we need to put pressure on management in bargaining, in the workplace, and in the streets.
Our union, led by members of PCL Contract Action Team, is planning to stage events throughout the City championing our cause. We want your input on the time and place of those events. Reach out to CAT members in your workgroup, members of the Bargaining Team, or Union Staff with your ideas for labor actions that will demand recognition for our demands.
Anyone interested in getting directly involved should call or email Field Rep James O’Laughlen to join the Contract Action Team.