As we mentioned in our February 14 update about ground rules, the PCC administration does not want to allow live streaming or recording of bargaining meetings. In recent days, they even seem to be walking back their agreement to have in-person observers. However,
- Oregon Law states that “Labor negotiations shall be conducted in open meetings unless negotiators for both sides request that negotiations be conducted in executive session.”
- FFAP strongly asserts that reasonable accommodations must be made for members who wish to attend bargaining but cannot due to disability or health and safety concerns.
- Oregon law also requires that an organization conducting a public meeting “shall provide for the sound, video or digital recording or the taking of written minutes of all its meetings.” Due to the cost and potential for error in written minutes, the vast majority of public organizations (including our own PCC Board of Directors) opt to record meetings.
It seems clear that PCC administration is hoping our members will become frustrated and agree to conduct bargaining behind closed doors. The tug-of-war over observers could set bargaining back for weeks or even months—a scenario we must be prepared for. However, we do not have to sit around and wait for legal issues to sort out. If the administration hears directly from the PCC community demanding transparency and access to bargaining meetings, we could convince them to come back to the table and get to work.
What can we do to get this show on the road? Join us at the Zoom member meeting on March 8 at 4pm for a quick but impactful group action (more details at the meeting!). Since our bargaining (or lack thereof) impacts students, we encourage you to invite them to this member meeting to participate in this action with us. When we act as a group, we send the message that our whole union is committed to open bargaining.