Ahead of government transition, Portland continues contract negotiations with city workers
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — As the City of Portland prepares for a major government upheaval, officials say they are still negotiating contracts for public employees in three labor unions.
Portland Labor Relations gave its latest bargaining update on Monday. According to the office, city leaders are in the process of establishing contracts for around 2,000 employees involved in three unions: the City of Portland Professional Workers, the District Council of Trade Unions and the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees.
The organizations represent employees who work for various city agencies, including the bureaus of water, transportation and environmental services.
CPPW members earn about $102,305 on average annually, while DCTU workers earn about $101,625 on average. Meanwhile, AFSCM Local 189 members earn an average of $87,251 each year.
Pay, along with benefits and working conditions, are three factors that could change after the negotiation process. Officials noted that any additional money allocated for the new contracts could worsen the city’s budget deficit.
On Tuesday, Portland City Council determined it will need to cut at least 5% of its budget to balance books for the 2025-26 fiscal year. The budget challenges could be exacerbated by the change in government structure, which will usher in new council members.
Despite this, AFSCME Local 189 President Rob Martineau asserted officials should still prioritize the ongoing contract negotiations.
“We aren’t talking points, we are the ones who, with tools in hand, build and maintain City infrastructure, help you get your permits, and navigate City processes,” Martineau said in an email. “Without us, the City of Portland does not work. This is why it’s so important that while City officials are focused on transitioning the form of government, they don’t forget about the people who — no matter what — show up everyday to do the actual work.”
“Mayor Wheeler can and should direct the City Administrator to settle a fair contract so that we can continue to deliver the services that make Portland happen,” he added.
Oregon law requires unions to bargain for at least 150 days before requesting mediation. All three groups have surpassed this period, but just DCTU and AFSCME Local 189 and requested mediation. Their mediation sessions are slated for Nov. 14 and Dec. 12, respectively.