Budget Outlook

The budget crisis is real, and every agency could be impacted by the proposed 2027 federal budget. Released in mid-April, President Trump’s proposal would cut public transit funding by 23%, according to the American Public Transportation Association. It would also eliminate advance appropriations authorized under the 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, including funding for transit capital projects, low- and zero-emission buses, and system maintenance.

RVTD

As many of you know, contract negotiations have begun. We have completed four days of bargaining so far. At the end of the previous contract negotiations, RVTD voluntarily provided an additional $1.25 per hour wage increase shortly after ratification. The district is now attempting to take that increase back, which amounts to roughly a 5% wage reduction.

There was little transparency around how the $1.25 increase was determined, and no MOU was signed. We are now at a difficult stage in bargaining, and as of this writing, no additional sessions have been scheduled. Please monitor your bulletin boards for updates and make sure the union has your current contact information for future calls to action.

C-TRAN

We continue contract negotiations for operators, with small-table discussions ongoing. Due to Providence exploring the potential sale of its health plan, our healthcare committee is reviewing possible impacts.

At this time, the Providence Health Plan remains fully operational, with no interruptions to benefits or services. We will keep you updated as more information becomes available.

Portland Public Schools (PPS)

While awaiting mediation scheduled for May 21, the district has reached out to resume discussions.

Governor Kotek has issued an executive order aimed at preventing Oregon school districts from cutting instructional days to address budget shortfalls. Because PPS has already approved four furlough days for the current school year, bus drivers only have one furlough day.

PPS must develop a plan within 90 days to restore instructional days to the 2024–25 levels by the 2027–28 school year. The district has indicated that furlough days were used to avoid job losses.

Transdev – Regions 2 and 3

We have begun contract negotiations with a combined team representing both Regions 2 and 3. After the first session, the team met for 14 hours on their own time at the union office to prepare counterproposals ahead of the next session.

At that session, we presented a full proposal package, while the district came unprepared. This team remains committed to securing a strong contract for both regions.

To our paratransit drivers please watch red lights as we are seeing an increase in red light violations. 

Transdev – Canby

By the time you read this, we will have completed our initial bargaining session with Transdev Canby, where we are prepared to present a full contract proposal, including economic proposals.

LTD

We have now held two bargaining sessions, and the district has yet to present proposals. Our team has submitted a full set of proposals, including detailed economic data and spreadsheets, with little response in return.

Despite this, the team remains committed to fighting for a strong contract.

Walla Walla

As we prepare for the Supervisor Contract, please reach out to Sherry Pease with your suggestions for contract changes.

Tillamook

We continue to file Demand to Bargain and grievance notices while Tyler is out. Key issues include a Demand to Bargain regarding a Utility Attendant position and a grievance concerning retirement contributions.

Please contact Tyler or the union office with any questions or concerns.

TriMet

I recently attended the retirement event for the Type 1 TriMet rail vehicle. It was encouraging to see such strong turnout from both current and former employees, as well as community members who support public transit in Portland.

TriMet’s Hastus program rollout has been delayed by at least one, possibly two sign-ups due to IT issues and updates.

We continue working through both new and longstanding grievances, though progress has been slow. We are staying persistent.

We are also seeing an increase in member-on-member conflicts. Please remember your oath and obligation not to harm fellow members. If you have an issue with a coworker, contact a union officer or the union office so we can assist.