Classified employees at Portland Community College have officially ratified a new labor agreement, ending their participation in an ongoing strike. However, uncertainty remains as faculty members continue their walkout, impacting classes and delaying the upcoming academic term.
Strong Support for New Agreement
The Portland Community College Federation of Classified Employees announced that union members overwhelmingly approved the tentative agreement reached earlier this week.
- 89% of eligible members participated in the vote
- 82% voted in favor of ratifying the deal
Union leadership described the outcome as a clear sign of worker solidarity after weeks of labor action.
Key Benefits Secured in the Deal
The newly ratified contract includes several gains for classified staff, such as:
- A 5% cost-of-living wage increase effective July 1
- A $1,350 ratification bonus for all classified employees
- Expanded health insurance caps
- Introduction of Health Savings Account (HSA) rollover options starting in October
- Guaranteed 90 days of pay and insurance for laid-off workers
Union officials said these improvements were essential as workers faced rising living costs in the Portland area.
Return to Work Planned, But Disruptions Remain
Classified employees are expected to return to campus on Monday to prepare for the spring term, now scheduled to begin on April 6.
However, the timeline remains uncertain because faculty represented by the PCC Federation of Faculty and Academic Professionals are still on strike, with negotiations ongoing.
Historic Strike Still Ongoing
More than 2,000 staff members initially joined the strike on March 11, marking a significant labor action at the college. While classified workers have reached a deal, faculty members continue to push for improved wages and working conditions.
Union leaders emphasized that their return to work does not signal the end of advocacy efforts, urging the administration to reach a fair agreement with faculty.
College Acknowledges Agreement Amid Financial Pressures
Portland Community College officials welcomed the agreement, calling it a step forward while also highlighting broader financial challenges facing higher education institutions.
College President Dr. Adrien Bennings noted that rising operational costs and declining enrollment have created ongoing budget pressures, making negotiations more complex.
What Happens Next
Negotiations between PCC administrators and faculty unions are continuing, with officials indicating that a deal could be close. Until an agreement is finalized, disruptions to classes and academic scheduling may persist.
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