Dear Brothers and Sisters,
I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits. We, as Local 294 ‘s negotiation team wanted to provide you with an update on the ongoing discussions between our union and GWU.
After extensive negotiations, we have reached a point where the University has made their Last Best and Final Offer:
*There were (4) remaining items the parties could not tentatively reach an agreement*
1. Merit Increase, GWU proposed an (3%) wage increase effective upon date of the vote, versus an (6%) increase proposed by the Union effective July 1 with campus wide merit increases each following year.
2. Status Quo on the shift differential and no changes to the time.
GWU proposed a ratification bonus of $500 on the first attempt which is intended to mitigate 4 month wage increases from July 1 – October 31. The Union proposed to retro the wage increase to July 1 – October 31 and $250 ratification bonus.
We understand that these offers may not meet your expectations and it’s natural to feel disappointed by this outcome. Your negotiation team shares your concerns however we have an obligation to let the membership know the facts and determine how we should move forward. It’s crucial to remember that we have the power of unity
If we decide to vote yes on GWU offer, you will receive a 3% merit increase plus a $500.00 ratification bonus and everything on the highlight sheet attached.
If we decide to vote no on the company’s offer, our union will file an F7 and request Federal Mediation. This also gives our Union automatic authorization if necessary to take job actions against GWU in an attempt to ensure that our demands are heard and reasonably considered including a strike.
The negotiation team stands united in NOT supporting the current offer from GWU. We firmly believe that we deserve better terms and conditions and we are committed to fighting for a more favorable outcome. In this challenging times we must stay together as a union to achieve a deal that everyone can benefit not just a few.
Your voice matters, your involvement is crucial in this process. We encourage you to stay engaged, participate in discussions and express your concerns. Together we can make a difference, and with unity we have the strength to achieve a better agreement. Let’s continue to stand strong and work towards a more equitable resolution.
Please read carefully the highlighted parts of CBA. Instructions about the days of the voting and how the members are going to vote will follow in a separate email.
Thank you for your dedication to our union and your colleagues. We will keep you updated on any new developments and please feel free to reach out if you have any questions or concerns or need additonal information.
Respectfully
Ilia Chakiashvili
Teisha Pettus
Sophia Wood
Traneka Parker