FAQs
Answers to common questions about AFSCME Local 2975, our contract negotiations with the City of Corvallis, and what a strike would mean.
For the full process and current dates, see our Strike Readiness page. For a session-by-session record of negotiations, see Bargaining Updates.
About Local 2975
Who does Local 2975 represent?
Approximately 246 City of Corvallis employees. Our members work in Public Works, the Library, Parks & Recreation, Community Development, Finance, Information Technology, Human Resources, and the City Manager’s Office, and in civilian roles supporting the Police and Fire departments. We are the largest union of City employees.
What does the union actually do?
We negotiate the contract that sets wages, benefits, and working conditions for everyone in the bargaining unit. We represent members in grievances and disciplinary matters. And we give City employees a collective voice in decisions that affect their work and their families.
How do I join?
Visit join.oregonafscme.org, talk to your shop steward, or email AFSCME2975@gmail.com.
I’m covered by the contract but not a member. What’s the difference?
Everyone in the bargaining unit is covered by the contract and receives its wages and benefits. Members pay dues, can vote in union elections and on contract ratification, and can serve as stewards or on the bargaining team. Non-members receive representation but do not vote.
About the negotiations
How long has this been going on?
We began bargaining in January 2026. Our previous contract expired at midnight on June 30, 2026.
What are the main issues?
Wages that keep pace with the cost of living, a seventh pay step, hazard pay for employees required to work during City closures, protection against rising health insurance costs, and improvements to how reclassification requests are handled.
What is mediation? What is impasse?
Mediation brings in a neutral state mediator to help both sides find agreement. The mediator has no authority to impose anything. Impasse is a formal declaration that further mediation is unlikely to produce agreement. Our bargaining team declared impasse on September 1, 2026.
Is the union still bargaining?
Yes. Declaring impasse does not end negotiations. We met with management and the state mediator on September 10, and our next session is September 25.
About a potential strike
Did the strike vote mean a strike is happening?
No. The August vote authorized the bargaining team to call a strike if one becomes necessary. It did not start a strike and did not set a date. 89% of eligible members voted, and 90.2% voted yes.
When could a strike legally begin?
Not before October 9, 2026, and only after ten days’ written notice to the City and the state Employment Relations Board. The full sequence is on our Strike Readiness page.
Would employees be paid during a strike?
No. The City does not pay employees for days spent on strike. That is the central hardship of any strike, and it is why we are organizing support in advance.
What happens to health insurance?
An employer cannot cancel your insurance simply because you are on strike. The City’s premium contribution is based on hours in paid status during the month. We have requested further clarification from management and will publish exact dates and impacts before any strike is called.
Can non-members strike?
Yes. Every worker covered by the contract may participate, and everyone who does is entitled to the same legal protections.
Can the City retaliate against someone for striking?
No. Retaliation for union activity — including discussing, supporting, or participating in a strike — is illegal. That protection applies to probationary employees the same as everyone else.
Are unemployment benefits available?
As of January 1, 2026, Oregon workers who have been on strike for more than two weeks are eligible for unemployment insurance. It is not full wage replacement, but it helps.
What about City services and the community?
Services may be interrupted, and that weighs on us. Our members chose this work because they care about Corvallis. City leadership has had ample opportunity to reach a fair agreement, and the choice to let negotiations reach this point was theirs.
For Corvallis residents
How can I support City workers?
Come to a City Council meeting and speak during public comment. Contact your councilor. Sign up for email updates at the bottom of this page, and check back here for the latest.
Where can I see the facts for myself?
Our Know the Facts page compares the City’s public statements against its own published budget documents. Every figure traces to a City source.
Still have a question?
Email AFSCME2975@gmail.com or talk to your shop steward. Members can also reach the Oregon AFSCME Member Services Center at MSC@OregonAFSCME.org.