Chief Spokesperson/Negotiator For Union Contract Negotiations

Clackamas County is seeking a Chief Spokesperson/Negotiator through Request for Proposals (RFP) #2023-72 to represent the county in labor contract negotiations with two public sector unions: the Clackamas County Employees' Association (EA) and the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME). The selected vendor will work under the direction of the County's Human Resources Director or Deputy Director, serving as the primary negotiator for three successive labor contract cycles with each union. Key responsibilities include representing the county at bargaining sessions, developing and responding to contract proposals, investigating grievances, and reviewing county policies for potential union contract impacts. Proposals will be evaluated based on the proposer's experience, understanding of required services, and proposed fees, with the county reserving the right to interview top-ranked candidates before making an award. The RFP was posted on September 12, 2023, with proposals due by October 12, 2023, for an initial contract period of 2-3 years with optional 2-year renewals.

The RFP does not specify specific set-aside designations or restrictions on respondent types. The apparent successful proposer is CDR Labor Law, LLC, as indicated in the Notice of Intent to Award Contract. Proposers must provide commercial general liability, professional liability, and automobile liability insurance coverage. While specific budget details are not explicitly stated, the contract will require the selected vendor to provide comprehensive labor negotiation services across multiple contract cycles. The procurement allows for a potential multi-year engagement, with the possibility of contract renewals. The county has established a 7-calendar day protest period for unsuccessful proposers, during which they may review the procurement file upon appointment. The successful proposer will be expected to demonstrate expertise in public sector labor negotiations and have the capability to effectively represent the county's interests in complex union contract discussions.