Clackamas County employees advocate for support amid ongoing contract negotiations

The Board of County Commissioners for Clackamas County, Oregon, convened on March 6, 2025, to address several pressing issues, including employee relations and a unique situation involving Commissioner Fireside.

The meeting began with a public comment from a county employee who expressed support for the employees' association. The speaker shared personal challenges, including a recent house fire that displaced their family, highlighting the difficulties faced by employees during the holiday season. They urged the commissioners to engage more with staff to understand their experiences and morale.

Following the public comment, Commissioner Schroeder provided an update on the ongoing negotiations between the management team and the employees' association. He noted that both parties had met for mediation and were scheduled for another session on March 18. The union had declared an impasse, and both sides had submitted their last best offers, which are available on the IRB website for public viewing. Schroeder emphasized the county's commitment to resolving the negotiations fairly and ensuring employees feel valued.

The discussion then shifted to the situation involving Commissioner Fireside. Commissioner West suggested rearranging the meeting agenda to address this matter promptly, allowing those present to return to work. The board agreed to conclude the current comments within 15 to 20 minutes before taking a recess to discuss the Fireside situation further.

Overall, the meeting underscored the county's ongoing efforts to navigate employee relations amid challenging circumstances while also addressing significant governance issues. The commissioners expressed a desire to maintain transparency and support for their staff as negotiations continue.