Contract Wins, Challenges Ahead & Member Engagement
We’re proud to share that our members at Salem Cherriots have ratified a strong 3-year con-tract with an overwhelming 93% yes vote — congratulations to everyone involved! Additionally, members at Bend COIC have now received their back pay following a successful contract negotiation.
In Corvallis, negotiations continue as members work toward ratifying their contract. At Salem MTR, we have received a last best offer and will provide further updates as we review and respond accordingly.

Legislative Setback and Its Impact
We are already seeing the serious effects of the failure of HB 2025, a bill that would have helped protect vital public services. In Medford, we’ve lost approximately 45 members and seen route reductions from 15 down to just five. When jobs are cut and service is slashed, the public also suffers, particularly those who depend on public transportation to get to work, school, or healthcare. TriMet has also announced service cuts, and while the full impact is still unfolding, the need for legislative support is urgent.
We are hopeful for a special session in September and will continue advocating for solutions that support working families and protect vital services.
This issue extends beyond transit: City of Portland, ODOT, and Intel have also announced significant job losses, with Intel alone cutting 2,500 positions. It’s clear we all must stay engaged and unified.

Advocacy & Lobbying
Beginning July 1, we are re-engaging with Markee & Associates as our lobbyists in Salem. They were instrumental in past successes and will be key allies moving forward.
To defend our jobs and service levels, we need every member’s voice and involvement.

Member Engagement & Community
We were proud to take part in the Portland Pride Parade on July 20, with the largest turnout yet of ATU and TriMet employees. The pride bus was a crowd favorite! Special thanks to Chris Parker for carrying the new ATU pride banner, and to Elizabeth Buckwalter for driving the bus.
Looking ahead, ATU will participate in the Veterans Day Parade on Nov. 11. If you’re interested in marching with us, please let us know. We’d love to have you!
Don’t forget, the ATU picnic is coming up on Aug. 3. We hope to see you all there for a day of fun, food, and solidarity.