Hundreds of Portland city workers could walk off the job Thursday after mediation continued Wednesday between their union and the city. As of 5:15 p.m., there was no word on an agreement.
City workers say they want better pay, better retirement plans, and benefits.
They say they’re not getting a fair deal, while the city says it has offered substantial raises.
The 615 city employees are primarily located within the Bureau of Environmental Services, Bureau of Transportation, and Parks and Recreation.
The city says the average worker would see an increase of nearly $11,000 a year.
The city’s proposal also includes a retroactive 5% cost of living and 1% percent pay increase; plus, a 5% percent cost of living and 1% pay increase to take effect July 1.
The city says the union rejected this proposal.
James O’Laughlen, the field representative for Laborers 483, says the city has failed over the prior 300 days of negotiation to recognize members’ needs on wages, safety, and respect in the workplace.
"We need the city to live its stated values and provide our members with a fair contract to do the work the people of Portland need them to do," he said.
The strike could happen at 12:01 a.m. Thursday.
Mayor Ted Wheeler declared a state of emergency last week to ensure city services would stay up and running.
The city says the essential services Portlanders rely on will be minimally disrupted, should a strike begin.