Lane Community College's classified staff and its administration have reached a tentative contract agreement. If approved by both sides, the union won't strike. But more tough talks are coming.
Leadership from LCC and the union representing 700 staff signed the tentative agreement after a third round of mediation. The college increased flexible spending contributions and the union agreed to six health insurance plan options. Bob Baldwin is the LCCEF union president:
Baldwin: “I would say that this proposed agreement is marginally better than having to push for a strike.”
Baldwin says striking would cause hardships for members and test their responsibility to the college and its students. Votes will be counted October 28th. If approved by the staff and ratified by the board, the agreement is good for one year. Negotiations for next year's contract start in February. Board President Sharon Stiles says reaching consensus may be even more difficult in 2017:
Stiles: “You have a PERS issue coming up also, and health costs will rise again. So it's not going to be an easy negotiation.”
She says unless there are changes at the state level next year, they'll be strapped to meet everyone's needs. Some KLCC staff are represented by the LCCEF union.
