Labor-Management Partnerships
The DC government has formed labor-management partnerships with labor unions and employees to work together to improve delivering high quality services to District residents and to improve the workplace environment.
District departments, agencies, and unions can participate in the partnership process by creating labor-management partnership councils (LMPCs). Partnerships are a voluntary, collaborative effort of labor and management working together to improve communications and resolve operational problems of mutual interest. Partnership activities do not infringe on collective bargaining issues and initiatives are typically aligned with the Mayor’s priorities. To establish a labor-management partnership council, review the guidelines below.
Characteristics of Successful Partnerships
Different situations and shared interests determine how each partnership functions; therefore, there is no single standard or model to run the councils. Consensual problem solving becomes the preferred method of resolving issues.
A successful partnership is characterized by:
- Active and engaged support by top labor and management leadership
- An environment that respects and values all employees
- Joint decision-making and agreement reached through consensus
- Cooperation even though some may disagree on specific issues
- Patience with and commitment to the partnership over the long haul
Learn more about LMPCs and how to get involved from the following:
