The affected workers are represented by the union that covers a broad swath of city operations, including maintenance crews, permitting staff, water and environmental services employees, and administrative personnel across multiple bureaus. A strike would touch everything from park upkeep and street repair to the processing of permits and the delivery of some public-facing services.

Union leaders have argued that years of understaffing have left workers stretched thin and that pay has failed to keep pace with the rising cost of living in Portland. City negotiators, meanwhile, have pointed to budget constraints and the need to balance any wage increases against other pressing priorities, including homelessness services and public safety.

The breakdown in talks means the two sides will enter next week without a contract agreement and without a scheduled return to the bargaining table. Union members have been preparing for a work stoppage for weeks, and picket lines are expected at multiple city facilities beginning Monday.

For residents, the practical effects will depend on which services are deemed essential and how the city redeploys supervisors and non-union staff. City officials have said contingency plans are in place, but they have acknowledged that some services will be delayed or reduced.

The dispute comes at a politically sensitive moment for Portland, as city leaders grapple with a tight budget and public pressure to improve basic services. A prolonged strike could intensify scrutiny of how the city manages its workforce and spends its resources.

Both sides have said they remain open to further talks, but no new negotiating sessions had been scheduled as of Sunday. Unless a last-minute agreement is reached, the walkout will begin Monday.