July 8, 2025 Update and Survey

AEE Bargaining Unit -

AEE has been notified of rumors that “the Unions” were part of the decisions in the layoff list. AEE did not collaborate with ODOT or DAS and was not included in any decisions regarding the layoff list.

AEE received an initial list from ODOT that was riddled with errors. We brought that to the State’s attention and wanted to make sure the seniority list was completely accurate for all represented staff. Late Sunday night (July 6th), we received a completely new list revised by DAS, and were informed this list was final and would be used for notification of Intent to Layoff.

We were assured that ODOT Executive Management wanted to follow our contract but after 8 business days we have not received the information we requested. We have not met with ODOT to discuss alternatives to layoff (per the CBA), or even get answers to the most simple of questions. We want to know why the layoff list includes the Engineering Reclassifications when that process hasn't been finalized? Why are people in non-engineering classifications on the list in Engineering Specialist classifications? When can an accurate list be generated that includes the correct classifications, names, and time in State Service?

Yesterday there was a short notice meeting that included three representatives from AEE, ODOT Executive Management, and DAS. That meeting resulted in further promises for ODOT to respond and work with AEE to reduce the number of affected employees. But as of right now we do not have answers to the errors shown on the seniority list, the errors on the layoff lists, or a scheduled meeting for resolving some of these issues.

Additionally, another issue has been brought to our attention. We feel it must be addressed. We were notified today of rumors of some managers discussing with crews that there may be some additional layoffs coming this week or next. ODOT HR Director confirmed this is false information. As mentioned in Director Strickler’s email, another round of layoffs may occur early next year if the Legislature is unable to provide additional funding.

AEE has a subcommittee working on potential alternatives to layoffs, as discussed in our contract article 6.5 Section 2.A. We are still waiting for the meeting with ODOT to discuss these alternatives but we are hopeful our ideas will be well received. As part of this subcommittee, we put together a survey for members. The first email with survey link went to personal emails, so please look there. If you have already taken the survey, thank you. If not, please take the quick survey before Thursday July 10 at 5pm. Your input is important to us to continue to push the Agency towards reducing layoffs.

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/PRZHHJ7

Please continue to keep us apprised of rumors or other misinformation you find. Ask AEE questions so that we can get answers for you.

In Unity

-AEE