Negotiations Update #11 from Chris DellaFranco – April 22, 2026
What's needed to move forward
Key Takeaways:
- Our goal in these negotiations is to improve safety and reliability at the refinery by strengthening training and qualifications while maintaining fairness for employees.
- Since April 9, we have reached out to the union twice to resume bargaining. We have yet to receive a formal response.
- The refinery cannot operate under the old agreement, due to safety and operational risks, but bargaining can continue during the lockout.
- Our proposal includes an average wage increase of 13%, or $7 per hour, over four years, along with lump-sum bonuses ranging from $2,500 to $10,000.
- Approximately 65 jobs, not 100, would be impacted under the proposal, and affected employees would receive generous compensation packages.
- We are seeking a six-year term, so we can effectively implement the proposed changes.
"We want to come to an agreement. We need to move forward. We are trying to secure the future of this refinery."
Chris DellaFranco, bp Whiting refinery manager
Transcription
Hello again, Chris DellaFranco here, the bp Whiting refinery Manager to provide an update on the ongoing labor negotiations.
Our goal in these negotiations is to enhance safety and reliability by improving training and qualifications while maintaining fairness to our employees.
Since my last update, we have reached out to the union twice to resume bargaining, and we have yet to receive a formal response. We are ready to resume bargaining.
I want to be clear that the refinery cannot operate under the old agreement, due to safety and operational risks, but bargaining can continue during the lockout.
Next, Let me clarify the terms being offered.
First, we are proposing an average wage increase of 13%, or $7 per hour, over four years, and lump sum bonuses between $2,500 to $10,000.
Second, about 65 jobs are impacted, not 100, with generous compensation to affected employees.
Third, we are seeking a six-year term so we can effectively implement the proposed changes.
You may also hear the union talk about bp’s corporate earnings. But like in any business, each asset must stand on its own and be resilient in all market conditions.
Lastly, we respect the union’s right to demonstrate and know most are doing so peacefully. However, any unlawful behavior must stop. We’ve asked the union to help ensure everyone’s safety at the picket lines.
In closing, we want to come to an agreement. We need to move forward. We are trying to secure the future of this refinery. Thank you for watching, and I will talk to you soon.