Impasse

Unfortunately, our optimism as we approached the bargaining session on June 1 proved to be unfounded.  After nearly 11 hours of discussion, the district declared an impasse at 8:50 pm.  This was done without Association assent.  We were prepared to continue.

In its declaration, the district cited articles of language that have been in our contract for several years as being "In opposition to current law".  Another article into which the district proposed adding language was cited as having legal concerns as well.

Our attempts to work within the give-and-take tradition of collective bargaining were met with rejection.  We offered to let this language stand (status quo) to be discussed at another time but this too was rejected.  It became apparent that anything less than complete acceptance of the district's proposals concerning these articles would lead to their declaration of impasse.

Your team felt, and continues to feel, that the proposals in question represented an unacceptable erosion of member rights.  We have been charged with ensuring that these hard won protections remain secure and will honor this trust.  This is not to suggest that we gave alterations or additions no consideration.  We did.  However, continued attempts to reduce work rights will be met with opposition.

Your Team understands the justifiable desire of members to know what happens next.  We will begin preparing for impasse.  (A description of the impasse process is embedded below.)  This is not a process to be taken lightly and we intend to devote ourselves to the task.  We will continue to provide as much information to members as possible.  Please continue to visit this page during the summer months.  Until a settlement is reached, our current contract language prevails.

Your Team shares your disappointment and frustration.  None of us wanted to bring this message to you.  We had hoped to leave the June 1 session with a tentative agreement for your consideration and ratification. This hope was dashed by the conversations of the day.

As we have since the inception of this round of bargaining, we will continue to do everything we can to represent your interests.  We remain grateful for your loyal support.

On behalf of Your Team,

Mike Williams
Negotiations Chair