Brothers and Sisters. With our last meeting of the year, it’s time to review 2024 to see some of what we have accomplished.
It is with thanks and gratitude that you, the Membership of Local 1-2, voted overwhelmingly to retain the current leadership in September, as well as approving a new Secretary-Treasurer and new Business Agents.
Before that, the new four-year contract for our largest bargaining unit, Con Edison, was ratified in a tidal wave of approval. It’s a contract with major wage increases, enhanced workplace provisions, healthcare and, most important, absolutely NO givebacks to Con Ed.
We had some great outings over the summer and a wonderful turnout at the Labor Day Parade, and the Breast Cancer Walk in late October.
Now that Election Day is fast approaching, I urge each and every one of you to Vote. Do not overlook the importance of this franchise as it affects everyone. From Social Security, Medicare, the well-being of the Labor Movement, to the environmental and labor laws we work with – all are on the table.
Meanwhile, Hurricanes Helene and Milton devastated large areas of the South, particularly the rural mountains of western North Carolina, southeast Georgia and whole swaths of Florida. Members of Local 1-2 are working under mutual aid in some of the hardest hit places, some of which will not have electricity or gas for months to come. Even though mutual aid is provided by the companies where we work, nothing feels be er than helping a neighbor. It’s what we do as Utility workers.
Our Union is growing as a 25 Member bargaining unit from Nelson Cleaning Services joined Local 1-2 to represent their interests. Welcome to Local 1-2!
Heading into the Holidays, from Thanksgiving to the New Year, I want to add my deepest thanks to the Membership for standing in Solidarity through this past year. To all Members and their families, on behalf of myself, your officers and the Executive Board, may 2025 be the happiest, healthiest and greatest year. You deserve it.
Remember, Apathy is Lethal!
