How Bargaining Works
Our Union bargaining team meets with the City on the first, third and fifth, Thursdays of each month. Each side passes proposed changes to the contract back and forth. No changes are final until both sides agree (this is called reaching a Tentative Agreement or “TA”). Once all proposed changes reach a Tentative Agreement all of the changes go out to the Union Members and the City Council for ratification votes. If our Union and City leadership both vote yes to the proposed changes, we have a new contract. If either side votes no, the Union and City go back to the bargaining table until a new Tentative Agreement is reached.
Bargaining Timeline
Bargaining on the Recreation Contract Began on February 12th. Our contract expires on September 30th, 2026. Bargaining will likely last past that expiration date. Our current contract will live on until a new agreement is reached.
How to Stay Informed
Contract Action Team - Our Contract action team (CAT) members will be able to tell you what’s happening in negotiations and share your ideas for the contract with our bargaining team.
Follow Bargaining updates– We will release a bargaining update over email after bargarning sessions. check out our Bargaining updates page.
Attend a hybrid baragining session, in person or virtual. We send out session invites and reminders usually the day after bargaining.
Resources - Bargaing Proposals Recreation vs the City of Portland
How to Get Involved
We need your help to protect your safety and annual Cost of Living Adjustment. Take a moment to reach out to the Mayor and City Council and let them know how important these issues are to you.
Attend a Recreation bargaining session. Whether you want to join us in person or virtual, we would appreciate the support! Check your email for more information on how to attend.
