Back at the table again on April 2

On Thursday, March 14, we met with management for our third bargaining session. We presented our initial wage proposal, seeking compensation in line with comparable hospitals and that also accounts for the high cost of living in Bellevue and the financial impact of long commutes. At our first bargaining session and at this one, we presented data supporting these factors. Nurses on our bargaining team reminded management that Overlake is distinguished and award-winning, recognized for the exceptional patient care provided by our nurses. To sustain the highest level of quality care, we proposed wages that reflect these standards.

We expressed that the current medical benefits plan causes nurses to incur high out-of-pocket costs when seeking care from non-Overlake providers under Levels 2 and 3 of the plan. Bargaining team nurses explained the financial and other impacts of this plan. We anticipate further discussions regarding health benefits at the table.

What’s next? Take Action!

• SIGN THE PETITION: We stand together in our fight for a strong contract! Connect with any negotiation team member, contract action team member (CAT), or unit rep to sign. If you are willing to help move this action by helping collect signatures, please contact our WSNA organizer Zach Seikel at 206-406-7203.
• COME OBSERVE: Nurses have been asking team members if they can come to observe negotiations. If you’re interested, please contact WSNA Nurse Rep Tara Barnes at tbarnes@wsna.org
• JOIN US FOR SIP N’ CHATS: Join bargaining team members in the first informal union meeting for WSNA members this Sunday, March 17, from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. Contact your officers or nurse rep for the link/passcode.  This information has also been sent out by email
• WSNA t-shirts are on their way. Get ready to wear our union blue. Stay tuned!

In solidarity,

Your negotiation team and WSNA staff:
Chris Birchem Ortho/Spine Surgery
Cassie Bundick CCU
Caine Ballew Float Pool
Michele Percosky OPS
Kristin Barnett IPS
Stacey Alvarez ED
Melissa Santos CCU
Balla Sarr Break Relief RN
Zach Seikel Organizer zseikel@wsna.org
Tara Barnes Nurse Representative tbarnes@wsna.org.