Dear Washington Carpenters -
We have been closely following the work being done to organize around the dissatisfaction with the tentative agreements that were brought forward. We have also been in direct contact with many of you who have reached out to me, and to NWCU staff members, to discuss those frustrations and perspectives.
I want you to know that we hear you. Your bargaining team is balancing those concerns and perspectives with the concerns and perspectives of members who are in favor of where we landed with the AGC. Our responsibility is to weigh all the factors, work with the bargaining committee, and make decisions that are in the best interest of members for the long term.
Clearly much of the dissatisfaction is coming from King County. This contract with the AGC covers a large swath of Washington, and even some specialty members outside of Washington. We need to address the reality of the higher cost of living in King County and the real impact on members living and working in the Seattle area. The bargaining committee needs your feedback on how we navigate this.
Many of us plan to attend tonight’s Local 30 meeting and Wednesday’s Local 129 meeting to listen, and to share the facts. In addition, we are setting up listening sessions for this week to ensure that any member who wants to share their feedback can do that. Look for information on those tomorrow (Tuesday, August 10th).
We are not preparing for a strike. The AGC of Washington Bargaining Team and the Union Bargaining Team will continue to bargain in good faith to get the best agreement possible. If we can secure another tentative agreement that the committee feels will meet membership expectations, an extension will be executed to allow for the ratification process. If we are unable to gain positive improvements, alternative plans will be made, and we will communicate those to you.
Thank you for all you continue to do to build this union. While some of us may differ on what we think is the best strategy, I know we all agree that we are stronger when we work together and not against one another.
In solidarity,
Evelyn
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