University, PSE of WWU reach tentative labor agreement

The Public School Employees Chapter of Western Washington University and the University have concluded negotiations for a collective bargaining agreement covering a number of the University’s classified employees.

Both PSE of WWU and University officials said they are pleased that a tentative agreement has been reached. They said this agreement shows what can be accomplished when both sides bargain in good faith, resulting in a fair and balanced agreement indicative of the positive working relationship between PSE of WWU and the University.

The one-year agreement, from July 1, 2012, to June 30, 2013, will be presented to members for a vote when more employees are back on campus in September. PSE of WWU’s bargaining team will recommend ratification.

The proposed contract covers approximately 314 administrative and academic supervisors and professional technical employees at Western. If ratified the contract then would be submitted to the Governor by Oct. 1. Both sides support the agreement and will work together to ensure approval by the Legislature early next year.

The prior contract with PSE of WWU expired June 30, 2011. For 2011-2012, PSE of WWU and the University are operating under the terms and conditions of the prior contract.

PSE of WWU’s bargaining team was led by PSE Field Rep John Kapple and Chapter President Susan Banton. Other PSE of WWU bargaining team members included: Chris Sutton, Sharon Miller, Tom Krabbenhoft, Jeannie Gilbert, Cristina Nelson and Kathy Tadlock. Visit the PSE of WWU website for more information.

The University bargaining team was led by Doug Adelstein, Western’s assistant director of Human Resources, and supported by Lea Aune, Human Resources services manager.