March 7, 2019
Dear fellow instructors:
As of March 2 the nominations for Vice President and Member-at-large officially ended. Only one nomination was received which re-nominated both Joe Gautille (Member-at-Large) and Jim Baird (Vice President). The results of the event obviously reflect a vote of confidence by the membership. As we approach contract negotiations, we thank you for your confidence in the ability and intent of current board. It speaks loudly for the membership. Please congratulate Jim and Joe on their continued service to the membership.
In accordance with the TWU557 by-laws, uncontested positions do not require an election. So, to that end, we’ve saved both time and expense in not conducting a formal election. While this is a financial and efficiency benefit, please be mindful that uncontested elections don’t promote the democratic process and may have unintended consequences. In the future we encourage your participation.
As you may know, our current contract is amendable at the end of December this year. However, as is typically the case, the Company has asked us to come to the negotiating table early. In preparation, we’ve conducted two previous surveys and have another outstanding at the moment (open until March 15). Hopefully you’ve made your opinions known through the surveys and if you’ve yet to respond to the current survey, please do so before it closes. As mentioned, we’ve been asked to come to the table early and have established opening talks with the Company on May 21 with six days total days scheduled initially.
With that in mind, we’ve been busy in pre-negotiation planning and have devoted two days in February reviewing contract items with the Board and negotiating committee. Additionally, your negotiations team just completed a two-day session (March 5-6) with a member of the National Mediation Board reviewing/learning negotiating skills and practices. The team has constantly been preparing and training since June of 2018.
To continue to glean input and introduce our members to our new Office facility we’ve scheduled a two-day Union meeting/open house. We’ve set aside April 8 and 9 for members to drop by for breakfast or lunch and visit with your Board of Directors and negotiators. We’ll be available before your B period through pre D period. Plan on stopping in to discuss issues and have something to eat or drink.
As always, thank you for your service and continued input. Please continue to let us hear your issues and concerns.
For the Board
Jerry
Gerald H Bradley
President, TWU 557