The Forestry Local held its spring Statewide meeting April 30th in Salem to count election ballots, set goals and make decisions.
The President’s Message focused on saying what you really want, not what you think is possible and then making it happen. What I really want is employment stability for my State Forest co-workers and a forest that provides sustainable environmental, economic and social benifits. This is Oregon and we can do things differently if they are not working, and with the State Forest budget heading towards a zero balance in four years, things are not working. I think there is a different funding way, and I’m going need your help to make it happen. More later.
Ballots were counted by Jim Neuman, outgoing Treasurer and Mike Bray, SEIU 503 Forestry Staff Organizer. The large sealed envelope had some real heft, and a thank you to everyone who took the time to vote. Your new elected officers will serve a two year term and represent your interests at Labor/ Management and at SEIU 503’s General Council.
Decisions made:
Recognizing outgoing officers Brandon Ferguson and Jim Neuman each with a $50 gift certificate.
Dave Wells and Will Bennett were both authorized for up to 5 days of travel (mileage, meals, lodging) to promote membership growth and representation.
Will Bennett is planning on bringing pizza to the Seasonal Meeting at Columbia City on June 13th.
The purchase of 250 insulated (steel) mugs with our Local Logo was approved.
A General Council Resolution (like a law proposal) was drafted and submitted that will charge the Stewards Committee with the creation of training opportunities for Stewards in “remote” locations. Currently most training is held in Portland, Salem or Eugene and travel can create a hardship for some and a barrier to becoming a Steward that needs to be removed. Thank Will Bennett for the idea.
Next Statewide meeting is October 15, 2016 in The Dalles. There will be a phone in option.
No comments:
Post a Comment