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Union holds to 6% pay-demand as Philomath SD negotiators flag tight budget outlook
Summary
At a bargaining session with Philomath SD 17J negotiators, association representatives reiterated a firm 6% salary proposal and pressed for insurance relief while district staff warned a weaker state revenue forecast and uncertain federal Title funding limit available resources.
Negotiators for the licensed bargaining unit reiterated a firm demand for a 6% across-the-board salary increase and urged the district to address rapidly rising health-insurance costs, saying members are struggling with everyday expenses.
"We're holding firm on our 6%. It's hitting us at the grocery store," said Nicole, a union negotiator, summarizing members' economic pressures and why the association is pressing for a raise and insurance relief.
District staff responded that statewide revenue forecasts have weakened and that the district is watching both state and federal funding streams before committing to major new permanent costs. A district representative said the May 14 revenue forecast was "less positive than anticipated" and described ongoing uncertainty about the state school fund and federal Title allocations for the next biennium.
The two sides discussed potential compromises and other contract-language items that could be advanced even if final compensation figures remain unresolved. Union negotiators said they would be open to the district proposing creative financing options, including multi-year phasing or other non-salary supports, but that compensation and insurance remain their members' top priorities.
District staff emphasized they are monitoring a projected state school fund baseline near $11.4 billion and warned that federal Title funding (Title I–IV) carries risks that could cut resources for items such as RTI, professional learning and extracurricular supports.
The session ended with both sides agreeing to continue talks; negotiators planned to return with more detailed proposals after reviewing updated state numbers and internal budgets.
