Negotiators for the Oberlin College Office and Professional Employees union met with College officials and a federal mediator at the Oberlin Inn on Thursday to lay groundwork for a new round of contract negotations.

“This is an ongoing process, not a one day solution,” said Vice President for College Relations Alan Moran.

Both sides have agreed to meet sometime next week, he said.

Meanwhile, OCOPE members staged informational picketing outside the Oberlin Inn in support of the negotiating team. This followed Wednesday’s “Hands Across Oberlin” rally which involved both OCOPE members and students.

Moran said picketing “is to be expected but the College is not going to negotiate on the sidewalk.”

Negotiators for OCOPE were not available for comment.

Moran said he was optimistic in light of the College’s recent negotiations with the United Auto Workers.

“The UAW and the College continue to have discussions,” he said. “Talks are moving forward.”