In our ninth bargaining session, management presented a comprehensive proposal. While we had productive discussions and saw some movement in our direction, several key issues remain unresolved.

We were encouraged to see the employer acknowledge the importance of year-for-year credit and eliminating ghost steps—key priorities we've been fighting for. However, management’s limited proposal would not take effect until 2027. This delay means that for the next two years, part-time and per diem nurses will continue to lose out on fair step accrual. Additionally, management has refused to agree to retroactive step increases based on years of service as a nurse, which we believe significantly undervalues the dedication of our part-time and per diem colleagues to Evergreen.

Wages: Falling Short

The employer's wage proposal continues to miss the mark:

• Year 1: $1 increase to each current step, plus 4%.
• Year 2: 4% increase.
• Year 3: 3% increase.

Their proposal includes no retroactive pay to November 1, with increases taking effect only upon ratification. While they did propose addressing ghost steps, this, as noted above, would not take effect until January 1, 2027—a delay we find unacceptable given the urgency of this issue.

Staffing: Still a Major Divide

We remain far apart on the topics of staffing and the staffing committee. We've put forward proposals that would improve staffing, reduce nurse burnout, facilitate taking time off, , and make it easier to provide the highest standards of patient care.

One flexibility they want is to remove your right to choose to be on standby when you are placed on low-census.  Management’s proposal ignores that if you pay someone for child care or elder care, you would need to continue paying for that care just in case you get called back in. We don't think this is fair.

Looking Ahead

In the second half of the day, the team reviewed proposals, looking for ways to address the employer's concerns while protecting the needs of nurses as well. While we have made some progress, there's still much work to do. We remain committed to securing a contract that reflects the value of our nurses and ensures the best care for our patients.

Board of Commissioners Meeting!

The Board of Commissioners have backed us in the past when we let them know our concerns were not being addressed. We ask you to meet with them and us at their next meeting.

The Board meeting is Tuesday 1/21 in Tan 250. Meeting at 5:45pm. RSVP here:

Follow up on Instagram or our Webpage:

https://www.instagram.com/wsna_evergreen/

https://www.wsna.org/union/evergreen-healthcare

We are stronger together, Be a Member!

https://www.wsna.org/membership/application

If you haven’t yet signed the petition, reach out to Sam via text to find one near you 425-606-7036

In solidarity,

Your Bargaining Team
Theresa Blazer, Holly Baker, Alicia O’Neal, Nikki Paulson, Sandy Gott, Ryan O’Neill Hawkins, Carol Flaming, Jaclyn Miller, Karen Lasota, Lexi Overa

Questions? Contact your WSNA Officers at localofficers@eh-nurses.com.