On March 9, we had our 12th session with the County. Both sides passed counter proposals for economics. Although the County made a significant movement in its economics, we still have work ahead of us.

There was significant movement in pay parity for the registered nurse (RN) classification. Since November, we have been pressing the County to increase the RN pay scale and align it with the public health nurse (PHN) classification. The County has countered with a phase-in process, whereupon ratification of the RN classification would move 50% closer to the PHN classification rate. For example, if the PHN hourly rate was $4 above the RN rate, the RN rate would be increased by $2, which is 50% of $4. Then effective January 2024, the RN rate would increase again by $2 (in this example) so that it fully aligned with the PHN rate.

As far as the general wage increase the County still remains at 4% for this year and 4% for 2024, stating that there is just no more money in the budget for any more than this.

The County is still refusing to pay for parking at the KCCF (outside of the night shift), as this is inconsistent with the climate agenda from the executive office. The County has acknowledged that the KCCF officers receive parking. They have also recognized that public transit at certain hours can be scary and that not all employees have the option of public transportation. Despite this, the County believes that the employees should continue to pay.

The County is still refusing to increase and expand longevity pay. The County states that the nurses are one of the only county contracts that have longevity pay in it. They are not looking to expand this, even though we have shown the comps how far off the market the nurses are as they continue to work here and have more experience.

Our next day at the table will be March 20.

Actions to take

• We have gotten a good response to the petition. If you haven't already, now is the time to support your team at the table and be united. Sign the petition now. It’s an outward sign to management that we are UNITED and ONE.
• Join the local unit's Instagram site, to be able to find up-to-date information - @phskc_staffnurses.
• Share your story about safety, staffing, and other issues you have experienced over the last couple of years!

In solidarity

Your Negotiations Team: Tyler, Carolyn, Tami, Elena, and Kaila

Side note- Michelle Moore will be on medical leave for the next month. Don't worry we have you covered, Tara Barnes, WSNA Nurse Rep will be covering for her while she is out. Please contact her with any questions or concerns. tbarnes@wsna.org or 206-575-7979 x3027.