Negotiations between the University and UPAMM resumed last week with the new approach outlined in recent updates. A small subgroup from both bargaining teams spent much of the week’s meetings re-acclimating after the two month hiatus. New comprehensive proposals were submitted, and discussions focused on the most significant changes in the new proposals. We also re-engaged in conversations related to several contract topics that the teams negotiated over previously such as the management rights clause, no strike clause, non-discrimination, labor management committee, release time, orientation, bulletin boards, lists and information, probation and seniority. UPAMM brought forth additional proposals concerning evaluations, personnel records and office space.

We will continue holding subgroup meeting twice a week until May, when we meet for a week-long negotiation session in May. We remain confident that at the conclusion of that intensive negotiation window, we will have reached a final tentative agreement that can be presented to the UPAMM membership for a vote.