***UPDATE***

On March 13, 2015, the Bureau received a request to revise the occupational definition for the classification of “Power Equipment Operators,” asking BOLI to add “Party Chief” as a sub-classification to Group 2. Commissioner Avakian has issued a decision to leave the existing definition as it is, without making any revision.

***

A Message to all Oregon Surveyors from PLSO Chair John Thatcher:

It came to PLSO's attention late last week that a proposed revision request to Bureau of Labor and Industries (BOLI) has been submitted by the International Union of Operating Engineers/Local 701 . It requests that the Party Chief (construction surveyor) classification be moved to a Group 2 for all public works.   

In short, the proposal requests to “…add the Party Chief subclassification to Power Equipment Operator Group 2 as a covered prevailing wage classification under ORS 279C.” The proposal is available on the BOLI-PWR web site - click here to read the entirety.

PLSO Executive Secretary Aimee McAuliffe, PLSO Lobbyist Darrell Fuller and I have been researching the topic, including getting feedback from Surveyors dealing with similar issues in other states and from Curt Sumner of NSPS [read a recent letter from NSPS regarding a similar issue]. PLSO has also been working with other like minded groups and formulating a plan of action. After considering the feedback and conference call Tuesday with Kim Robinson of IPSLA, we have concluded that this request is not in the best interest for our profession. It was explained that the fallout in Illinois has included many onerous additional requirements such as project labor agreements, responsibility for union benefit plans, requirements to carry permanent liability insurance (which don't go away even if the company is sold), DOL union training program requirements and more. In summary - surveyors lose control of their own profession. While Illinois is not Oregon, we are choosing to learn from their experience.

PLSO exists to look after the interests of Oregon Surveyors, and our plan is to submit a letter of opposition.

But time is short. The deadline for comments is April 15. A request for an extension was made and subsequently denied. Mr. Fuller advises that, while it is important for PLSO to respond to this proposal, it is also important for individual surveyors to weigh in. This is where you come in. If you are in agreement with PLSO, please stand behind your professional community and let BOLI know your opinion. PLSO is working with other groups to form a list of appropriate talking points. You may choose to wait for this list or move ahead with your own opinion on the matter.

Requests made by email must be sent to the following address: pwremail@boli.state.or.us. (It is preferred that requests and responses be submitted by email.) 

Requests sent by regular mail must be sent to: PWR Coordinator Bureau of Labor and Industries 800 NE Oregon Street, Suite 1045 Portland, OR 97232

Reference The request to revise the BOLI Power Equipment Operator definition by adding the Party Chief subclassification to Group 2.

We appreciate the time you have taken to read about and consider this issue.

Regards,

John Thatcher

PLSO Board Chairman