On June 26, we joined with the staff bargaining unit and had our 8^th session with the County. We spoke directly about the long pattern of waiting on responses to proposals and information requests. We have been very diligent and intentional, and would expect to see the same from the County. After 5 long months of this, it feels like a lack of respect and priority. The County conveyed that they are very serious about bargaining with us and understood what we had clearly expressed.

A look at Proposals

In the renewed spirit of moving forward, we were able to have productive discussions about our outstanding proposals:

• The right to grieve matters of discrimination, similar to what can be found in other County contracts.
• An increase to the bilingual premium that values all eligible nurses in a fair manner.
• Paid Family Medical Leave provisions which allow nurses to use their own accrued leave to supplement their PFML benefits.
• Reasonable telecommuting language that reduces our carbon footprint, decreases wasted commute time and expense to the County while still meeting the needs of clients.
• Maintenance of reduced parking rates for KCCF at Goat Hill.

We shared your testimonies and invited the County to join us in reading dozens of them together, aloud! Your stories gave us the assurance we are on the right track and could feel the bargaining unit nurses in the room with us. Additionally, we provided another in-depth presentation of research that supports the interests of our longevity proposal, made in February. Though we did not get an economic proposal from the County, we were able to further emphasize how important the longevity issue is for the nurses. Your team made it clear that a proposal from the County is the expectation.

Time for Escalation

• It is time to take our fight for a STRONG and FAIR contract to the next level
• We are scheduled to meet with King County Councilmember Teresa Mosqueda on July 7, to discuss significant public health issues and concerns
• Keep an eye out for a Solidarity Petition
• Continue to submit stories in support of our priority proposals
• We remain focused on our bargaining priorities

Stay informed and support your team 

• Stay informed - Read all WSNA communications and status updates from the Employer
• Engage & Participate – Watch for important updates on how to support your Bargaining Team and fight for a Fair Contract
• Let your Bargaining Team know if you wish to be an Observer during negotiations. Next bargaining date is July 11
• Join the monthly virtual Lunch & Learn – Next meeting July 2 at 12:05 pm – 12:55 pm
• Provide Input/Feedback to your Bargaining Team
• Follow on social media platforms
• Make sure you check out your WSNA webpage: https://www.wsna.org/union/seattle-king-county-health-dept-supervisors

Your Bargaining Team,

Nicole Klein, Local Unit Chair
Christopher Salatka, Local Unit Vice-Chair
Annie Roberts, Local Unit Secretary/Treasurer
Zerai Asgedom, Local Unit Grievance Officer

Questions? Contact your Bargaining Team Members or WSNA Nurse Rep Linda Burbank lburbank@wsna.org