The Union Bargaining Team would like to express our disappointment with Willapa Harbor Hospital management’s recent decision to request mediation instead of presenting an adequate counterproposal to membership.
We made it clear that we’d present our members with any proposals from management to review and vote, allowing staff to determine whether the proposal was acceptable. So, not only are we disappointed, but we’re frustrated that this will likely cause further delays.
Our most recent proposal came after a lengthy bargaining process where we made concessions and sacrifices, but management didn’t budge. It included four core issues that are critical to the security and well-being of staff. We also left annual wage increases and specific market adjustments open for management’s response and consideration.
Throughout negotiations, the team has made substantial movement in response to
Willapa management’s requests. Management has made little movement towards addressing the priorities and concerns of membership.
NOTE: A mediator does not have the authority to impose a settlement or make binding decisions. The mediator’s role is limited to facilitating discussions and reviewing the same issues we’ve already discussed throughout negotiations. This is why management’s decision will realistically delay us further.
Nevertheless, our team is willing to participate in mediation to demonstrate our commitment to bargaining in good faith. We’ve been ready and committed to achieving a fair agreement that addresses the needs of staff and supports the long-term success of the hospital.
However, we’re left with an important question: if management is unwilling to present a counterproposal to employees for their consideration, what is the purpose of further delaying that opportunity through mediation?
In Solidarity,
Your Bargaining Team
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Message sent to OPEIU Local 8 represented at Willapa Harbor Hospital on Sept. 3, 2026