Pacific Power workers in Bend picket for contract

Pacific Power workers represented by the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers are staging informational picketing near the utility’s Bend district offices this week, claiming the multi-state utility is not offering a fair contract.

Spokesman Jeremy White said Wednesday Pacific Power’s parent company, PacifiCorp, is offering a below-average contract compared to other utility companies.

The protesters were joined by family members holding up signs by busy Third Street during the evening commute.

They say the company is refusing to meet regional standards and offer comparable salaries, forcing experienced workers to seek better opportunities elsewhere and putting customers’ service at risk.

Jason Lindeman, a substation wireman for Pacific Power, says this effects customers.

“When all the qualified people leave, then we lose the ability to get the power on quicker,” he said. “So more experience means more reliability.”

Pacific Power told NewsChannel 21 they are still in contract negotiations and hope to continue their great relationship with the IBEW.