I commend Elon and his editors for providing readers a story that exemplifies solid reporting and detailed, even-handed analysis. It’s basic explanatory journalism, giving context for management’s offers and the union’s demands. Based on this reporting, I’m inclined to agree that the county’s made a fair and reasonable offer given its difficult financial situation. Union negotiators risk alienating taxpayers (many of them employed in the private sector and non-profit organizations) unless they come down substantially from their salary demands and accept the minimal contribution to their generous insurance benefits. Including Multnonah County in the union’s formula for pay raises is a non-starter. You simply can’t reasonably expect public or private employers to par comparable salaries in Portland and Eugene-Springfield. Finally, the union makes a tactical error by putting a media gag on striking workers. Are they afraid some on the picket line have dissenting opinions?

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