Wednesday, April 17, 2013

Improved Work Capacity Test, Tentative Agreement Reached

A tentative agreement was reached on Tuesday 4/16/2013 on an improved version of the Work Capacity Test (WCT).  Management and Labor both brought changes to the bargaining table to solve some problems with the Test that received a major overhaul in 2011.  Now if someone misses a scheduled date for the WCT (and up to three others), perhaps due to a out of Oregon assignment, the Department will be able to provide the test using a person certified in First Aid/ CPR/ AED who is willing and able to provide assistance at the test site. Also changed is the re-imbursement rate for those who need to see a medical professional as part of the pre-screening process.  The rate following ratification of the contract will now be $50, to more accurately reflect the current cost of co-pays.

It is a true testament to the listening skills of both Labor and Management to come to this agreement.

Next scheduled dates for ODOT Coalition bargaining are April 30,  May 14 and May 28 at OPRD Headquarters in Salem.

The next Forestry conference call is Sunday evening, April 28th and participant call numbers are available from SEIU Staff Organizer Timothy Welp or Forestry Local President Dave Wells.

The spring Statewide Forestry Meeting is May 18, 2013 in Coos Bay.  We will be meeting from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm in the Coos Bay - North Bend Labor Temple located at 3427 Ash Street, North Bend.

Sunday, April 7, 2013

Save the Date, May 18th for Forestry Statewide Meeting

On May 18, 2013 the Forestry Local will hold it's next statewide meeting in Coos Bay.  We will be meeting in the Coos Bay - North Bend Labor Temple, located at 3427 Ash Street, North Bend.  Topic items are still being developed but will include support for the staff at the Coos District and developing a Seasonal Firefighter union orientation outline.  If you have other items that you would like to see on the agenda please forward them to any of your elected Forestry Leadership.
 
A call-in number will also be available for those who cannot make it in person.

The next Forestry Local conference call will be Sunday evening, April 14th at 1800.  For a call-in number contact Local President Dave Wells or SEIU Staff Organizer Timothy Welp.