BGH, Teamsters wrap up talks

SANDPOINT — Bonner General Hospital has wrapped up the latest round of contract negotiations this week with nurses represented by Teamsters Local Union 690.

Hospital officials say "good progress has been made," during the process, according to a BGH press release.

"We are pleased with the progress made to date. It often takes two years or more to negotiate a first time contract. We only started nine months ago, and have already reached tentative agreement on over 80 percent of the contract issues," said chief hospital negotiator Alan Fry.

"This much progress results from frequent meetings and the fact that both the hospital and the union have been willing to work long hours.

Fry said negotiations have include many 10 and 12 hour days.

"Both sides have strong opinions, but there are reasonable people on both sides so we have been able to work together," Fry said.

Bonner General Hospital nurses voted in favor of Teamsters Union representation 51-48 in August of last year. Negotiators have been meeting for up to 32 hours monthly since October 2006. Agreement has been reached on key issues such as scheduling, vacations, holiday and sick day policies.

"While finding agreement on the final issues such as health insurance, pensions, hourly rates and premium pay will take time, negotiations are on track for resolution," said Fry.

"Our first priority is making sure any contract with our nurses ensures continued delivery of safe, high quality health care to our patients," said Bonner General Hospital CEO Sheryl Rickard.