July 2026 Labor Press - TriMet Center Maintenance article by Ron Melby, Executive Board Officer

Please note that, due to space limitations and the volume of submitted materials, certain articles will be published on the ATU website and official Facebook page to ensure that all communications from ATU Officers remain fully accessible to the membership.

It’s hard to believe we are already more than halfway through 2026, and it certainly hasn’t been a boring year.

As we enter the summer months and temperatures begin to rise, members are reminded that policies are in place that allow for extended and more frequent breaks during periods of elevated heat. Please make sure you are familiar with these provisions and take advantage of them when needed to stay safe on the job.

Additionally, with the implementation of the telematics policy, the district will be monitoring vehicle idle times. This is expected to generate occurrences within the system. Members should remember their Weingarten rights and must invoke those rights whenever called into a meeting with management that could lead to discipline. If you are questioned about idle time while working in the field during hot weather conditions, please contact your union representative immediately.

Finally, the question on everyone’s mind: layoffs. While ATU has not yet received consistent information regarding which departments will be affected, we have been informed that layoff notices are expected to begin at the end of June and should be completed by September. ATU and TriMet have signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), which will be posted soon, outlining the bump-back procedures in detail.

We understand this is a challenging and uncertain time. Members are encouraged to avoid rumors and instead seek information and clarification from their location representatives regarding procedures and developments.

As always, stay safe.

Ron Melby