Portland city workers began to walk off the job and take to the picket lines Thursday after ongoing failed union negotiations with the City.
These workers include people who work on streets, treat wastewater, and clean and manage parks - among other essential services around the city.
The 615 city employees striking, represented by the City and Laborers' Local 483 - Portland City Laborers union (PCL), say they want better pay, better retirement plans, and benefits.
Negotiations with the City have been ongoing for nearly 10 months. They met 19 times before PCL requested mediation a few months ago.
The two sides have not been able to reach an agreement on a new contract. The workers say they’re not getting a fair deal, while the City says it has offered substantial raises.
A KATU photojournalist on the scene saw workers from the Parks Department and Environmental and Transportation services with tents and signs along N. Kerby Ave.
James O’Laughlen, the field representative for Laborers 483, said 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.
Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler issued an emergency order to continue city services ahead of the Portland laborers' strike.
Under the emergency order, the City can hire contractors or vendors to help fill those roles, reassign city employees, and partner with other groups or agencies.
In a statement, the City said they "will not retaliate against any PCL employees who choose to go on strike."
The gates to drive into Washington Park / Hoyt Arboretum were seen locked up, as park workers are some of the hundreds of strikers.