New Tentative Contract For Portland Police

PORTLAND, Ore. — It still has to pass through a couple more steps to be official, but Portland and its Police union have reached a new tentative contract. 

 It’s been a tough negotiation since February of 2020, amid the protests and the pandemic, having to give up in person negotiations and rely on Zoom.

But now, after mediation, the city and the Portland Police Association shook hands on a four year deal.  A couple more steps remain: the union rank and file have to vote today on whether to ratify it.  Then comes a virtual education session with the lead negotiator and a city attorney, then a city council hearing on it, February 17th, with the council’s final vote coming no later than February 24th.

Mayor Ted Wheeler says the contract includes a new discipline guide, and integrates the new Portland Street Response, which sends counselors and paramedics instead of police, on calls about addiction and mental health. The contract offers officers five thousand dollar retention bonuses. 

The city’s district council of trade unions is still planning on striking tomorrow.