LIUNA, Local 261

43rd San Francisco Mayor Edwin Lee Celebrates Historic Election Victory with Organized Labor!

2011-12-20T18:32:00.000-08:00

Join us December 20th...Membership Appreciation and Celebration of "Jobs & Growth."

2011-12-01T15:42:00.000-08:00

Mayor Edwin Lee, DA George Gascon, & Sheriff Ross Mirkarimi Share the Victory Circle for the 2011 Cycle!

2011-11-09T23:23:00.000-08:00

November 9, 2011:
It is official, the election that 100s and 100s of Union members have been working on for the past year has ended. Of particular interest to the men & women of LiUNA!, Local 261 is the passage of propositions A, B, & C as well as the successful campaigns of endorsed candidates Edwin Lee, George Gascon, and Ross Mirkarimi for Mayor, D.A., and Sheriff.

ED LEE 55961 31.11%
JOHN AVALOS 33594 18.68%
DENNIS HERRERA 20392 11.34%
DAVID CHIU 16652 9.26%
LELAND YEE 13530 7.52%
JEFF ADACHI 11613 6.46%
BEVAN DUFTY 8531 4.74%
for up to date results click here

We Fight, We Win! Union Workers Support JOBS & Sustainable Growth! 100s Attend GOTV Walk!

2011-11-05T16:40:00.000-07:00

Bay Citizen/USF Poll: Lee Dominates - The Bay Citizen

2011-10-17T10:02:00.000-07:00

LiUNA!, SEIU 87, Carpenters' 22, & SEIU UHW KICKOFF Walking Efforts for 2011 in the Mission with over 250 workers!

2011-10-08T23:02:00.000-07:00

2011 We Fight, We Win!

We Fight, We Win!, 2011 kicks off at LiUNA!, Local 261.
Today, over 250 workers from the Laborers' Union, Carpenters' Union, Custodians' SEIU Local 87, & Healthcare Workers' SEIU-UHW converged in the Mission District and walked well over a hundred precincts to get the workers' message out. At the conclusion of the precinct walking effort, in which several vans took workers all over the City, the union members enjoyed an excellent BBQ celebration of solidarity and an open bar as the Blue Angels flew overhead.
The workers and union members were clearly delighted with special appearances from State Senator Leland Yee, Board President David Chiu, and Supervisors Scott Weiner & Malia Cohen, who all talked about the importance of the upcoming election. Also joining in the event were SF Labor Council Director Tim Paulson, Commissioners London Breed, Ahsha Safai, & Tom Harrison, Tom Hsieh of the Democratic County Committee, Executive Director of the Alliance for Jobs & Sustainable Growth, Vince Courtney, and many many more supporters of this great effort.

THIS Saturday October 8th, 10am walk, 3:00pm UNITY BBQ & ... on Twitpic

2011-10-04T17:11:00.000-07:00

THIS Saturday October 8th, 10am walk, 3:00pm UNITY BBQ & ... on Twitpic
THIS Saturday October 8th, 10am walk, 3:00pm UNITY BBQ & Celebration! (program @ 3:30,) at Local 261. Join hundreds of workers, union members, and Friends of Labor as we blanket the City with our message about what is important to working families, and good for San Francisco.

Fundraising is important. Field work for the campaigns are critical too. See you October 8th at Local 261!

2011-10-01T08:39:00.000-07:00

Mayor Edwin Lee, Bevan Dufty get nod for #2, and #3 Choice for SF Mayor as LiUNA! Local 261 finalizes selection process.

2011-09-27T17:23:00.000-07:00

Today, the Local 261 Executive Board announced that it has initiated the endorsement process to finalize the Union's Rank Choice Voting ticket for November 8th. The Union membership had difficulty moving forward with the #2 & #3 choices during the initial discussions (when the 1st Choice endorsement of Senator Leland Yee became official,) because of the uncertainty surrounding the Mayor's decision to run. Upon announcing his intent, the membership at the Department of Public Works (over 250 public employees,) began to initiate a process.

"We certainly supported our Union leadership when they moved Senator Yee forward with the first selection, all we asked was that they provide us an opportunity to support one of our own. Ed Lee has been one of our own. We are in full support of the Union ticket...1, 2, and 3!"
-Theresa Foglio, Dpw

Because Mayor Edwin Lee has worked closely with the membership of Local 261 for many years, including past efforts related to the first jointly administered public/private Apprenticeship program, and current efforts related to pre-apprenticeship opportunities for youth and residents the Executive Board unanimously moved his selection as a number two for Mayor. "Our important efforts at the Alliance for Jobs and Sustainable Growth, really energize the workers who have known for sometime that they have been ignored by the more ideological labor organizations. Workers want to work. It is counterproductive to engage in senseless ideological debates while people are off work. For too long, the labor movement has been steered by the progressive far left, which has resulted in less work for our membership, plain and simple." - Ramon Hernandez, LiUNA! 261 Business Manager

The Board also unanimously selected Bevan Dufty to round out it's ticket. "Bevan, we call him "Bevan" because he is our great friend, is our third choice for Mayor." I have had the pleasure of working with him for a long, long time. He has helped me to understand the importance of consensus building, as well as how to navigate difficult political situations. Anyone who knows him personally or professionally, knows he has all the tools to be the next Mayor of San Francisco." - Vince Courtney, LiUNA! 261 Political Director

The Laborers will be supporting their ticket as well as the campaigns of George Gascon for DA, Cunnie/Mirkarimi for Sheriff, and YES on B, YES on C/NO on D, YES on G! and others. Join us after precinct walking on October 8th & November 5th for Solidarity BBQ's at Local 261.
(pictured: Bevan Dufty and Edwin Lee at the Alliance for Jobs Candidate debate in August)

Obama jobs bill hits home for Southern Nevadans - www.ktnv.com

2011-09-16T17:44:00.000-07:00

Obama jobs bill hits home for Southern Nevadans - www.ktnv.com

We Fight, We Win! 2011

2011-09-06T13:48:00.000-07:00

Mayor Lee, Poised to Enter?

2011-08-01T14:33:00.000-07:00

CPMC Rally for Jobs

2011-07-14T22:21:00.001-07:00

CPMC Rally for Jobs, a set by herrero.contractors on Flickr.

Alliance for Jobs & Sustainable Growth is about progress & moving San Francisco forward!

Members at the SF Housing Authority Unanimously Ratify Agreement for 2011-2013!

2011-04-19T17:24:00.000-07:00

SFHA Ratification Vote at Local 261

Today, Union members ratified an agreement that secures benefits, saves jobs, and concludes in 2013. The agreement was ratified by the men & women of Local 261 by a unanimous vote and can be viewed here. The Joint Labor Management Committee will begin meeting, and the Union will report back at quarterly meetings or as needed.

SF Supervisor Eric Mar Steps up for Labor & Community. Wants Solar projects to move forward with Multi-craft job opportunities.

2011-03-18T22:05:00.000-07:00

As many LiUNA!, Local 261 members know, we have fought hard to provide access to jobs in new construction in the green sector such as solar and energy efficiency. Nine months ago, we suffered a setback when the City's Office of Labor Standards Enforcement ruled in June 2010 that we were not allowed to perform solar installation at the Sunset Reservoir. We have continued to fight to regain access to this emerging industry for our workers, and this week we won a victory when the state Division of Apprenticeship Standards ruled that solar installation is "clearly a multi-craft occupation," opening solar back up to the laborers, carpenters, as well as the electricians and all of the other union members as well.

On Tuesday, San Francisco Supervisor Eric Mar will introduce legislation to make sure that the City never unfairly shuts out members of any union again by making it clear that the OLSE is not authorized to make a wage determination when there is a jurisdictional question between trade unions. We support Supervisor Mar and his actions that reinforce the need for labor to work together if we are to get San Francisco back on track."

(L-R) SFPUC General Manager, Supervisor Eric Mar, Supervisor Carmen Chu and Mayor Gavin Newsom

"Clearly" Good News - The process of installing photovoltaic systems has been properly categorized by the State (Community Wins!)

2011-03-15T16:18:00.000-07:00

Date: March 15, 2011
From: Glen K. Forman, Acting Chief
RE: California Division of Apprenticeship Standards Review of Industry Practices as they relate to possible Multi-employer Photovoltaic Installer Apprenticeship programs

The Division of Apprenticeship Standards (“DAS”) held public hearings in Northern California and Southern California to gather information from industry experts and apprenticeship programs to determine the specifics of the work processes actually being performed and necessary to the safe installation of photovoltaic systems. Based upon the information submitted at those hearings, DAS summarizes its findings as follows:
The occupation of Photovoltaic Installer in becoming recognized as an apprenticeable occupation. At the federal level, the occupation is now included in O*Net:
Occupation: Photovoltaic Installer
O*Net Code: 47-4099.01 http://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/47-4099.01
Minimum Length of Program: 24 Months or 3200 hours
DAS found that this occupation is clearly a multi-craft occupation. The process of installing photovoltaic systems includes tasks that are already within the work processes of many established trades and is a part of those apprenticeship programs.

In approving programs in this occupation, DAS will be mindful of the following issues concerning the scope of a Photovoltaic Installer Apprenticeship programs:
• the size of the generation capacity of the installation where this occupation is found seems generally to be 250 KW or less. On larger projects many trades may be involved parts of the installation process. Because of the scope and size of projects larger than 250KW it does not appear that a photovoltaic installer would be used to perform the installation. Rather, multiple trades would perform work in connection with such a large installation.
• Whether on large or small jobs, installation work by a photovoltaic installer does not involve work past the “combiner box.”
• Where the work includes the installation of traditional materials integrated with photovoltaic materials the sponsoring party of a photovoltaic program may wish provide a linkage into a State of California registered apprenticeship program whose Standards contain those specific materials and work processes. This is similar to the linkage between Sound and Communications Installer trade that is a sub trade of the full Inside Wireman (Electrician) program. Likewise, training in the installation of photovoltaic materials is not an appropriate substitute for full training in the installation and use of traditional materials. For example, a photovoltaic installer who is trained to install window glass with photovoltaic properties is not a trained glazier. Likewise, a photovoltaic installer who is trained to install roofing materials with photovoltaic properties is not a trained roofer.
Suggested work process are, but not limited to;
1. Material Handling  2. Racking Modules  3. Module Installation  4. Module connections  5. Testing and Troubleshooting  6. Maintenance  7. Site Survey
After a number of programs have been approved in this occupation it will be appropriate to establish a Minimum Industry Training Criteria Committee through the California Apprenticeship Council.

Rally Friday with Brothers & Sisters from the SF Labor Council, State Senator Leland Yee, & LiUNA!, Local 261 Members!

2011-03-02T14:35:00.000-08:00

ALERT! Protest Rally this FRIDAY! Don't let CA become the next Wisconsin!
by Leland Yee on Wednesday, March 2, 2011 at 2:04pm
ACTION ALERT! UC Regent David Crane penned an op-ed in the SF Chronicle this week calling for an end to collective bargaining for public sector unions here in California. It turns out that David Crane’s appointment to the Regents is up for confirmation before the Senate. We need to send a very clear message that we will not stand for this type of attack on working families and that David Crane should be immediately removed. We must not let California become another Wisconsin. Please join me, union leaders and members, as well as other concerned citizens from across California this Friday, 12 Noon for a rally and protest. Now is the time to stand together! Please help to spread the word, and I hope to see you Friday.

When:
Friday, March 4, 2011, Noon

Where:
University of California Medical Center
513 Parnassus Avenue
San Francisco, California

Local hire victory party a political who's who | San Francisco Bay Guardian

2011-02-26T17:43:00.000-08:00

Local hire victory party a political who's who | San Francisco Bay Guardian

Laborers' Community & Training Foundation Welcomes 43rd Mayor Edwin M. Lee & Rings in the New Year!

2011-01-30T12:41:00.000-08:00

Dear Brothers, Sisters, & Friends of Labor:

Edwin M. Lee, 58, is the 43rd Mayor of the City and County of San Francisco. The former City Administrator, Lee was appointed unanimously as successor mayor by the Board of Supervisors on January 11, 2011 to fill the remaining year of former Mayor Gavin Newsom’s term, who was sworn in as California’s Lieutenant Governor on Monday, January 10th. Lee is the first Asian-American mayor in San Francisco history.

Come Celebrate with us!

Local 261 LCTF

Proud Laborers' Union Membership moves in Unity toward SFHA Agreement.

2011-01-26T11:35:00.000-08:00

San Francisco, Laborers' (SFHA) at Union Hall: Union members met at length today, and are prepared to move expeditiously forward on securing a new MOU with the SFHA through September 2013, (the last Memorandum of Understanding expired in September of 2009.) The workers, most of whom have worked the grounds for over 15 years, are prepared to make changes to schedules, assignments, and work locations in order to comply with federal directives, be a more valuable unit, and serve the resident population in order to secure maintenance of healthcare and pension related benefits with additional job security moving forward. The Union's negotiations team which includes Stewards Johnson, Villalobos, De La Torre, and Breaux, will continue deliberate discussions with management related to job assignments and seniority while keeping the general membership apprised of new developments.

Mayor Edwin Lee.

2011-01-12T12:48:00.000-08:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Contact: Mayor’s Office of Communications, 415-554-6131

*** PRESS RELEASE ***

EDWIN M. LEE SWORN IN AS 43RD MAYOR OF SAN FRANCISCO

San Francisco, CA—Edwin M. Lee was sworn in today as the 43rd Mayor of the City and County of San Francisco. The former City Administrator, Lee was appointed unanimously as successor mayor by the Board of Supervisors to fill the remaining year of former Mayor Gavin Newsom’s term, who was sworn in as California’s Lieutenant Governor on Monday. Lee is the first Asian-American mayor in San Francisco history.

“I am profoundly humbled by the confidence placed in me today and energized by this historic opportunity to serve the people of our great City as mayor,” said Mayor Lee. “Today, on behalf of all San Franciscans, let us come together as a City to bridge that which may divide us and meet the challenges of governing in these difficult times.”

In 2010, Mayor Lee was appointed to a second term as City Administrator by Mayor Newsom and his appointment was confirmed unanimously by the Board of Supervisors. As City Administrator, Mayor Lee spearheaded government efficiency measures and reforms that reduced the size and cost of government, from reducing the vehicle fleet to consolidating departments and back office functions to save tax dollars. He implemented the City’s move to cleaner vehicles and an infrastructure to support electric vehicles and green City government. Mayor Lee also developed and oversaw implementation of the City’s first ever Ten Year Capital Plan to guide our capital priorities and infrastructure investment.

Working with the Department of Emergency Management, Mayor Lee has overseen the City’s disaster recovery and response planning efforts, bringing every department together to coordinate response and recovery for the next major earthquake or emergency. With the Fire Chief, Mayor Lee led efforts to work with PG&E to assess the City’s gas and electric infrastructure and ensure its safety and reliability. For the 2010 U.S. Census, Lee organized the outreach efforts to ensure our City continues to make progress on inclusion and cultural competency.

Mayor Lee first began working for the City and County of San Francisco in 1989 as the Investigator for the City’s first Whistle Blower Ordinance and has since served as the Executive Director of the Human Rights Commission, Director of City Purchasing, and Director of the Department of Public Works before he was first appointed as City Administrator in 2005.

Prior to his employment with the City and County of San Francisco, Mayor Lee was the Managing Attorney for the San Francisco Asian Law Caucus, for which he worked from 1979 to 1989. Mayor Lee was born in Seattle, Washington. He graduated Summa Cum Laude from Bowdoin College in 1974 and from Boalt Hall School of Law, University of California, Berkeley, in 1978. Mayor Lee is married to his wife Anita and is the father of two daughters Brianna and Tania.

Labor, Business, Community...Join Us!

2011-01-05T11:38:00.000-08:00

Brother Courtney to Appear before Board of Supervisors Rules Committee Monday at 10:00 am.

2011-01-02T20:18:00.000-08:00

Oscar De La Torre, Ramon Hernandez, and the LiUNA! membership in Northern California (46 counties,) express many, many thanks to "Friends of the Laborers" who have offered their support of Mayor Gavin Newsom's most recent nomination (Vince Courtney, Jr.,) to the SFPUC, including Tom Ammiano, Mike Casey, Tim Paulson, Larry Mazzola, Steve Falk, John Rizzo, Joseph Bryant, Tom Hsieh, Isabel Wade, Larry Del Carlo, Joshua Arce, Edwin Lee, Guillermo Rodriguez, Aaron Peskin, Al Casciato, Mohammed Nuru, Kim Shree Maufas, Tom O'Connor, John Hanley, and Jim Lazarus, among others. Also, we are honored by support from organization including the San Francisco Labor Council, Unite-Here Local 2, the SF Chamber of Commerce, the A. Philip Randolf Institute, Brightline Defense, and the Alliance for Jobs & Sustainable Growth. It's critical, helpful, and very much appreciated by us all.

What was he thinking???

2010-11-01T21:23:00.000-07:00

SF City Hall: Today
Lieutenant Governor Abel Maldonado decided to hold a press conference on the steps of City Hall to campaign against Mayor Gavin Newsom and the San Francisco values and worker positions. Fortunately, Union members had other ideas, and the conference had to end abruptly before it even started so that Maldonado could leave town. Ooops!
News Story here
Cool pics here

Fired Up! 260 plus men and women in the Streets! Don't mess with Texas? No, don't mess with LiUNA! We Fight, We Win! (again)

2010-10-30T17:17:00.000-07:00

Join us at the Great BIG coordinated "Get Out the Vote" Precinct Walk and BBQ this Saturday at 10am.

2010-10-26T11:26:00.000-07:00

Gavin Newsom for Lieutenant Governor Event at LiUNA! 261 with Webcor and Platinum Advisors.

2010-10-19T21:50:00.000-07:00

2010 10 19 Newsom for Lieutenant Governor (Platinum Advisors/Webcor/LiUNA! 261)

Local hiring on city-funded projects falls short | San Francisco Examiner

2010-10-19T15:26:00.000-07:00

Local hiring on city-funded projects falls short | San Francisco Examiner

We Fight We Win!, Rally and Precinct Walk!

2010-10-01T20:51:00.000-07:00

Laborers' Union and Friends Kickoff with Endorsed Candidate Steve Moss this morning in District Ten.

2010-09-25T13:57:00.000-07:00

We Fight, We Win! October 1st 3:00pm Sharp.

2010-09-24T18:37:00.001-07:00

City Laborers will Fight!

2010-09-20T22:00:00.000-07:00

CRITICAL: Laborers to Fight October 1st & October 30th. Membership Solidarity BBQ to follow!

2010-09-16T07:45:00.000-07:00

Happy Labor Day! from the Men & Women who brought you the Weekend!!!

2010-09-02T13:28:00.000-07:00

Northern California Laborers' Official Appointed Liuna Vice President

2010-08-31T18:16:00.000-07:00

Northern California Laborers' Official Appointed Liuna Vice President

Laborers Announce Plan for November Election. October 1 & October 30 are "Target" Dates for Membership.

2010-08-27T20:40:00.000-07:00

Tonite:
LiUNA!, Local 261 Business Manager Ramon Hernandez announced the Laborers' Union Precinct walk campaign and GOTV effort. The completion of the State Laborers and Local Union endorsement process (which included a withdrawn endorsement of Jeff Adachi for Public Defender,) Following a discussion with union membership at the general membership meeting Hernandez advised that
"This is it! This is the BIG ONE! If Meg Whitman is successful at defeating Jerry Brown, and Jeff Adachi beats our public sector membership on November 2, we will be at the beginning of a significant downturn for Labor. It's gonna look like Arizona real quick guys."
In addition to the many State-wide selections such as Gavin Newsom for Lieutenant Governor, Tom Ammiano and Fiona Ma for Assembly and membership favorite Leland Yee for State Senate, the Local has also endorsed:

Janet Reilly: Supervisor District #2
Carmen Chu: Supervisor District #4
Debra Walker: Supervisor District #6
Rafael Mandelman: Supervisor District #8
Steven Moss: Supervisor District #10
(Chris Jackson second selection in D-10)
Phil Ting: SF Assessor
At the College Board, the Local has already selected John Rizzo and, at the School Board the Local endorsed Hydra Mendoza. There are more seats to consider in each of the races.
Follow on facebook http://facebook.com/liuna261

48,000 New Jobs in Phase One alone! Laborers to see a bulk of the Work. Transbay Terminal Groundbreaking (completion 2017!)

2010-08-11T16:01:00.000-07:00

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi attended a groundbreaking ceremony for San Francisco's Transbay Transit Center Wednesday morning. She was joined by San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom, U.S. Secretary of Transportation Ray Lahood, Sen. Barbara Boxer, and local supervisors and legislators. LiUNA! Vice President Rocco Davis and NCDCL Business Manager Oscar De La Torre attended along with Staff.
-Ramon Hernandez
see more here

San Francisco Supervisors approve Hunters Point EIR - San Francisco Business Times

2010-07-28T23:33:00.000-07:00

Jobs!, Jobs!, Jobs!

San Francisco Supervisors approve Hunters Point EIR - San Francisco Business Times

Senator Barbara Boxer, Mayor Gavin Newsom, Ramon Hernandez, and friends in Early July.

(photo: Linda Post)

Ramon Hernandez Announces that NCDC Agreement Reached in the Final Hours!

2010-07-07T15:00:00.000-07:00

LMA Tentative Agreement Ratified
Highlights
2010-2012
Economics:
NCDC LMA GROUP 3
FY 10/11 $42.01(x 2.0%)($.89)=$42.90
FY 11/12 $42.90(x 2.5%)($1.09)=$43.99
*FY 11/12 $43.99 (x 3.0%)($1.29)=$44.19
*In the event of trust fund reserve shortage (<$110m) by 12/2010. Non-Economics:
- JOINT ALLOCATION: This language required an additional Union/Employer agreement prior to deciding how much money goes to benefits/workers. THIS PROVISION HAS BEEN REMOVED.
- PENSION PROTECTION: In the event that the Trustees determine that additional money is required, the Union shall allocate to the Fund.
- SIDE LETTERS/AGREEMENTS: All side letters and agreements will terminate (sunset) in 12 months unless the Union & Employer agree that any such Agreement is beneficial to the Industry.
- HOLIDAY RECOGNITION: In the event that a Holiday falls on a Saturday, Union and Employer agree that the preceding Friday shall be recognized pursuant to this agreement.
- AVAILABILITY FOR HIRE: (Adding EXCUSED)
1.) Up to one week for hospitalization/medical treatment of immediate family member,
2.) Confinement of spouse during anticipated delivery/pregnancy,
3.) NCDC sponsored Training for up to one week.

Negotiations take place at the NCDC

Wake Up! Contract Campaign Bargaining UPDATE

2010-06-07T09:26:00.000-07:00

Contract Campaign Bargaining

Help Support Friends of Labor and the Laborers!

2010-06-04T10:44:00.000-07:00

Union Members VOTE June 8, 2010

Governor: Jerry Brown

Lt. Governor: Gavin Newsom

CA Senator: Leland Yee

Assembly 12: Fiona Ma

Assembly 13: Tom Ammiano

Democratic County Central Committee (critical!)

Dist 12: Tom Hsieh, Hene Kelly, Jake McGoldrick, Mary Jung, Dan Dunnigan, Eric Mar, John Avalos, Alex Volberding.

Dist 13: Debra Walker, Rafael Mandelman, Gabriel Haaland, Aaron Peskin, David Campos, David Chiu, Melanie Nutter.

Bayview Hunter's Point Development moves toward Reality and JOBS!

2010-06-04T10:29:00.000-07:00

(06-03) 22:40 PDT SAN FRANCISCO -- Plans to turn the vacant Hunters Point shipyard into a new neighborhood for 24,500 people received an important boost Thursday night when San Francisco's planning and redevelopment commissions narrowly approved the project's hotly contested environmental impact report.
"This project has a long way to go, but this is a start," said Planning Commission President Ron Miguel. "And it's about time it got started."
While the Redevelopment Commission approved the report unanimously, the Planning Commission split 4-3, with Christina Olague, Kathrin Moore and Hisashi Sugaya opposed.
The long, contentious meeting pitted neighbor against neighbor as they argued over the future of the neighborhood. Concerns about the toxic waste that will be left underground at the shipyard and the environmental impact of the construction plan clashed with the city's promise of thousands of permanent and construction jobs, millions of dollars in community benefits and the revitalization of a long-abandoned part of the city.
"The community is at arms with each other over (the value of) a job versus a life," said Marie Harrison, a Bayview resident worried about the effect toxics could have on residents. "Don't accept an EIR that's flawed."
Others in the community argued that after more than a decade of planning, hundreds of community meetings and a 2008 citywide vote in favor of the project, it was time to move the development plan forward.
"The right thing to do is to approve this project," said Pastor Arelious Walker of the True Hope Church in the Bayview. "I'm sick and tired of talking about our 'economically deprived' community. This will be the economic engine."
The eight-hour fight over the 7,700-page environmental impact report was just the afternoon's opening event. The two commissions also were slated to vote on various other measures to clear the way for the shipyard project, including zoning and city plan changes and a development agreement for the project, a process that was expected to continue late into the night.
If approved, the shipyard plan is expected to go before the Board of Supervisors this summer.
The development plan calls for putting 10,500 homes on the 720-acre site, with 32 percent reserved for affordable housing. Offices, retail stores and "green tech" business development areas also will be included.
The centerpiece of the project is still a 69,000-seat stadium for the 49ers on the shipyard site. But if the football team moves to Santa Clara, as now planned, the stadium will be replaced by more housing.
"This is the last alternative to keep the 49ers," said Carmen Policy, the team's former president and a consultant for Lennar, the Miami-based developer.
But Policy also warned that without a bridge over Yosemite Slough, helping to speed traffic to and from games, "there will be no stadium. The (National Football League) has made it patently clear this needs to be done ... and so have the 49ers."
Environmentalists argue that bridge construction would be an environmental disaster for the slough and that game-day traffic could be easily rerouted through nearby residential and commercial areas, with only slight delays.
Planners "can't say there will be no (environmental) impact with a bridge," said Arthur Feinstein of the Sierra Club. Without a bridge, "there will only be about a minute-and-a-half increase" in traffic time.
Supporters of the agreement stressed the financial benefits to both the city and the Bayview community.
But others complained that community residents have heard similar promises in the past, with little or nothing to show for them.
"Everyone wants jobs and housing, but the question is at what price," said Alex Tom, executive director of the Chinese Progressive Association.

Reprinted from the SFGate/E-mail John Wildermuth at jwildermuth@sfchronicle.com.

This article appeared on page C - 1 of the San Francisco Chronicle
Read more: http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2010/06/03/BAR41DPLFF.DTL#ixzz0puGO0cM8

Mayor Newsom and Labor Leaders work aggressively toward Developement!

2010-05-26T16:07:00.000-07:00

San Francisco, CA — Mayor Gavin Newsom today signed legislation to stimulate development and generate much-needed construction jobs and General Fund revenues. The Development Impact Fee Reform & Deferral Program is a 2-part impact fee reform legislation re-designing how and when development impact fees are paid.

“The fee deferment legislation will radically simplify the collection, enforcement and notice procedures for all city development impact fees,” said Mayor Newsom. “Deferring upfront costs for developers will speed local economic recovery, generating construction jobs and general fund revenues.”

The legislation would infuse a cumulative total of $894 million in spending and almost 4,800 construction-related jobs into the local economy. Furthermore, if start dates are accelerated by two years, the City would receive over $22M of additional General Fund property tax revenues that would otherwise be lost due to later start-times and lower property values.

The Development Impact Fee Reform & Deferral Program allows developers to defer payment of 80% of their impact fees from the beginning of construction to just prior to completion, between 10-30 months. The fee deferment decreases the amount of up-front costs to be financed through debt or equity, and in turn reduces the amount of interest paid over the construction period.

The legislation also includes good government measures to streamline impact fee collection and enforcement, create a “one-stop” fee payment shop in the City’s Department of Building Inspection (DBI) and improve public notice and transparency.

An independent study commissioned by the San Francisco Office of Economic and Workforce Development (OEWD) concluded that the combined economic benefits of the Fee Deferral Program and the Affordable Housing Transfer Fee program (pending at the Board), would result in the following benefits:
• Accelerating estimated construction start dates by 6 to 30 months.
• Decreasing construction interest carrying costs by 8% to 22%.
• Decreasing avg. price/rents needed to attract equity and financing.

The Mayor today also announced the introduction of the next phase of stimulus legislation to form a Citywide Mello-Roos Community Facilities District (CFD) to finance Infrastructure Impact Fees. The legislation would reduce the upfront costs of new development by allowing developers to finance infrastructure-related development impact fees with tax-exempt bonds. It would also streamline the process for annexing into a Citywide CFD. Joining a CFD allows developers to spread the cost of infrastructure over the life of their project, thereby removing these costs from up-front private financing and improving each project’s access to equity.

Brightline & LiUNA!, Local 261 persuade to an ultimate decision!

2010-05-16T14:59:00.000-07:00

Fog City Journal

Newsom’s budget advisor: State cuts could hurt SF | San Francisco Examiner

2010-05-10T11:19:00.000-07:00

Newsom’s budget advisor: State cuts could hurt SF | San Francisco Examiner

Laborers' Union Local 261, NCDCL Affiliates, and LiUNA! Organizers Kickoff May Day 2010!

2010-05-01T21:44:00.000-07:00

Today, hundreds of thousands of people marched throughout the United States to stand against discrimination and to stand up for treating workers with dignity and respect. Our own Ramon Hernandez lead the way from the Mission District to San Francisco City Hall, watch the video or read more about the day's events here.

Agreement to remove Mothball Fleet outlined - San Jose Mercury News

2010-03-31T18:13:00.001-07:00

Agreement to remove Mothball Fleet outlined - San Jose Mercury News

Posted using ShareThis

US House of Representatives extends JobsNow! funding.

2010-03-27T17:22:00.000-07:00

Mayor Newsom's YouTube update.
New website Launched to Hire SF.

pictured: the eardrum-splitting rally March 15, 2010, attended by several hundred members of various builders unions. Most of them filled the steps and sidewalk in front of City Hall, while others repeatedly drove their trucks around the block laying on their horns for 30 minutes straight.

They were there to support Mayor Gavin Newsom's legislation to defer up-front developer fees, which the mayor says will spur development and thus create jobs.

Laborers' Union, SF Building Trades, LiUNA! Organizing Department Rally at SF City Hall for Jobs!

2010-03-15T16:46:00.000-07:00

If you were anywhere near City Hall around noon Monday, you surely heard the eardrum-splitting rally attended by several hundred members of various builders unions. Most of them filled the steps and sidewalk in front of City Hall, while others repeatedly drove their trucks around the block laying on their horns for 30 minutes straight.

Read more: http://www.sfgate.com/

Hello Wallet provides financial opportunity to SF through partnership with the Laborers' Union and others.

2010-03-09T21:46:00.000-08:00

City Hall Monday 11:30 am!

2010-03-09T21:16:00.000-08:00

GIVE US WORK

Rally for Jobs

11:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m.

Monday, March 15, 2010

Polk Street Steps

San Francisco City Hall

Polk between Grove and McAllister

The San Francisco Board of Supervisors is considering development

fee deferrals that could move up construction of some projects

by as much as two years

AND PUT HUNDREDS OF US BACK TO WORK.

Believe it or not, there’s opposition.

COME DEMAND WORK!

LiUNA! One Minute Update on JOBS!

2010-02-22T09:24:00.000-08:00

Make Sure Washington Hears: It's About Jobs
With thousands of LIUNA members out of work and unemployment reaching 25 percent in the construction industry overall, it's time to strongly make the case for build America jobs like never before. LIUNA members have sent hundreds of letters to the editors of their local newspapers making the case for good jobs, but the message needs to be wider and louder. Fight for jobs now by sending a message to your Senators asking them to vote in support of the HIRE Act - a jobs bill that will create construction jobs and invest in our roads, bridges and highways. Then, help fight for jobs by telling your personal story about the need for good jobs in a letter to the editor. Read one LIUNA member's published letter and stay tuned for a union-wide, full-scale, grass-roots campaign to pressure Congress to pass jobs legislation.

SFMTA - San Francisco Central Subway to create more job opportunities for membership!

2010-02-14T12:58:00.001-08:00

"Connecting Communities" by Nathaniel Ford (9/9/2009)

A construction approach called “deep tunneling” will be used to construct the Central Subway. Deep tunneling allows most of the work to be done below ground, reducing disruption on the surface. The tunneling will be accomplished with a Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM), a technology that has been used extensively throughout the world. Deep tunneling has great potential for controlling project costs by minimizing surface construction staging, reducing utility relocations and shortening construction time. The only visible tunneling activity will occur at the portal construction location (4th Street between Bryant and Harrison streets) and at the excavation site (Columbus Avenue at Union Street).

Local Jobs in the Pipeline for Members of the Laborers' Union!

2010-01-27T00:11:00.001-08:00

(01-26) 11:33 PST San Francisco -- A $171 million federal loan to help build a cutting-edge replacement for San Francisco's Transbay Terminal will keep construction plans on track, officials said, even as they wait to hear if they will receive $400 million in federal stimulus funds for a project expected to create 48,000 jobs.

Read more: http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2010/01/26/MNAK1BNOJD.DTL#ixzz0dnYsrJov

Meeting with Mayor shows $800 million left over for "100% wage subsidy" 1500 jobs and counting!

2010-01-15T11:06:00.000-08:00

Brothers & Sisters-
On Saturday, I had an opportunity to discuss in detail with Mayor Newsom the continuing effort we have made to secure job opportunities for our membership in both the private and public sector. The Mayor urged me to continue our City-wide effort at informing our signatory contractors and any employers to apply for the money and hire, hire, hire! The Mayor is off to Washington DC both to advocate for more funding and to extend the program beyond September 2010. Check the video here 10:37 JobsNow Program! I can assure you that we will make it a priority and make every effort to create opportunity for our construction membership while making options for our public sector membership faced with layoffs.
Fraternally,
Ramon Hernandez
LiUNA!, Local 261 Business Manager

Bayview-Hunter’s Point Communities Fight “Revitalization” | RaceWire

2010-01-02T13:05:00.000-08:00

Bayview-Hunter’s Point Communities Fight “Revitalization” | RaceWire

Ramon Hernandez and the Local 261 Executive Board host Holiday Breakfast for the Membership!

2009-12-22T14:57:00.001-08:00

This morning, well over a hundred members and retirees showed up to the Local Union to celebrate the Holidays and enjoy a brotherood breakfast at Local 261. Business Manager Ramon Hernandez, David De La Torre, Jesus Villalobos, Javier Flores, and Theresa Foglio helped the membership select toys that were made available through the IAFF Local 798 Firefighter's toy program. The event was well enjoyed by all!

LiUNA! extends Happy Holiday Greeting to All Members, Brothers, Sisters, and Friends of Labor!

2009-12-22T08:09:00.001-08:00

click above for recent posting!

LiUNA!, Local 261 Business Manager Ramon Hernandez & the 261 City Committee wish everyone Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and Happy New Year!!!

2009-12-19T19:19:00.000-08:00

December 17, 5-8pm Ramon Hernendez and the 261 City Committee Host Annual Holiday Open House at Laborers' Union Hall!

2009-12-12T13:00:00.000-08:00

Ramon Hernandez, the Local 261 Executive Board, and the LiUNA!, Local 261 Public Employee City Committee host the Laborers' Annual Holiday Open House. Please come by between 5 & 8pm to celebrate the Holidays, meet with friends, make new friends, andjoy some Holiday cheer. Overflow parking will be available at the SFFD Emergency Department at 19th & Shotwell.

View Larger Map

Jobs Now! Can help our Union Members out of Work!

2009-12-10T22:26:00.000-08:00

Mayor Newsom Announces San Francisco Jobs Now Program Has Put 1200 People Back to Work!

2009-12-10T15:47:00.000-08:00

Program funded by stimulus dollars showing results
12/10/09 – Mayor Gavin Newsom today announced that the San Francisco JOBS NOW program has used federal stimulus funds to put 1,200 San Franciscans back to work, and is seeking an additional 1,300 job participants before the funds expire in September 2010. Additionally, the Mayor outlined the JOBS NOW marketing campaign launching this month with MUNI and other city partners, as well as his efforts to secure funding from Congress and the White House to extend the JOBS NOW program past September 2010.

“In the midst of the nation’s economic crisis, San Francisco’s JOBS NOW program is finding ways to put people back to work and stimulating our city’s local economic recovery,” said Mayor Newsom. “As President Obama puts the national focus on job creation, lawmakers in Washington need to take notice of one of the stimulus’ success stories here in San Francisco.”

The JOBS NOW! Program benefits local employers by providing referrals of qualified workers and by subsidizing 100% of their wages until September 30, 2010 (when the federal funding expires).

LiUNA!, Local 261 Business Manager Ramon Hernandez has scheduled a luncheon with many signatory contractors to move towards partnership through this effort on December 21st, 2009.

http://www.jobsnowsf.org/

Pelosi (D-SF) Healthcare Bill passes tonite in the United States House of Representatives 220-215!

2009-11-07T23:11:00.000-08:00

Carmen Chu & Debra Walker gain Laborers' Union (LiUNA!, Local 261,) Support

2009-10-21T13:22:00.000-07:00

Earlier this week the Local 261 Executive Board endorsed SF Supervisor Carmen Chu in her re-election bid in Sunset District Four. "Supervisor Chu has been a compassionate leader that the community and the Park advocates have come to appreciate for her expertise and commitment. She has made a strong impression on us all as civil servants and Laborers' Union members,"said Joan Vellutini, LiUNA! Local 261 Chief Steward who has been with the City for over 32 years. The Local Union Board also decided to support Debra Walker's effort to continue on the SF Democratic County Central Committee. "Debra "DW" understands what the Laborers do in San Francisco, it is important for us to have somebody in District 6 where a significant amount of construction takes place who understands our position as it relates to construction and development!" - Ramon Hernandez, LiUNA!, Local 261 Business Manager

Brother Oscar De La Torre Honored at APRI by Brothers, Sisters, and Friends!

2009-10-08T21:30:00.000-07:00

LiUNA!, General President O'Sullivan and APRI to celebrate with Community Leaders, Labor Leaders, and Elected Officials Oscar De La Torre's new post!

2009-10-06T08:22:00.000-07:00

Please join us Thursday to celebrate Oscar De La Torre's new assignment as APRI recognizes him for his outstanding efforts on behalf or the men and women of the State Labor Movement as well as his true commitment to the community and the residents of San Francisco.

For more information on APRI click here.

Laborers' Union Members show support for Senator Leland Yee's efforts to keep revenue at the SF Recreation and Parks Department!

2009-10-02T14:45:00.000-07:00

Event with Senator Leland Yee

San Francisco Supervisor Bevan Dufty Declares for SF Mayor!

2009-09-23T20:57:00.000-07:00

Today, SF Supervisor Bevan Dufty declared his candidacy for Mayor of San Francisco. Read more here.

pictured: Ramon Hernandez and Bevan Dufty this morning at the SF Labor Council Breakfast.

Local 261 Membership at SF Housing Authority Gets Down to Business.

2009-09-23T16:47:00.000-07:00

San Francisco: Today, the members at the SF Housing Authority met with the Local 261 Business Representatives and Business Manger Ramon Hernandez to discuss in detail the current Memorandum of Understanding which is set to expire on September 30, 2009. Among other things, there were discussions surrounding the allocations of the 3.75% wage increase set to take effect 9/30, force account & seniority issues, sick leave,layoffs, jurisdictional language, overtime and other issues the members want to see addressed at the collective bargaining table. The group enjoyed pizza, lite refreshments and catching up with their colleagues. The first session with management takes place at 9:00am tomorrow with members Salvador Villalobos, Mariano De La Torre, and Kevin Johnson to participate.

US President Addresses Nation on Healthcare Commitment.

2009-09-09T21:06:00.000-07:00

HAPPY LABOR DAY TO ALL BROTHERS & SISTERS EVERYWHERE!

2009-09-04T13:53:00.001-07:00

Dear Brothers & Sisters/Estimados Hermanos y Hermanas:
Late last month, we notified the Union members of very positive changes which have taken place in our Local Union and in our Organization as a whole. I am very pleased to communicate that Brother Oscar De La Torre has been elected to lead our efforts at the Northern California District Council of Laborers for the next four years. Special thanks to all the members who assisted this great effort! Brother De La Torre's commitment to protecting our pension and healthcare are unmatched, while his aggressive advocacy for us all at the bargaining table is a necessary change that had to be made at our Council as we attempt to survive and flourish in very challenging economic times.

Local 261 Moving Forward: In the Private Sector, we are gearing up for negotiations for a new Master Agreement to commence in the second half of 2010. I will be discussing with all of you the specifics while making regular progress reports as we get closer to full-blown sessions. I am confident that with new leadership at the NCDCL we will have a Council negotiations team that does everything possible to get the best deal for our deserving membership! In the Public Sector, I look forward to continued teamwork and success in the City and County, the SF Housing Authority, the SFUSD, and the City College. Be assured that as we move forward, we will continue to work directly with shop stewards and City Committee members so that we can be sure that in all collective bargaining situations we were well-prepared, started early, left late, and that in this poor economic climate, we know we left nothing on the table.

I am also honored to have been appointed by your Executive Board to serve as the Business Manager of Local 261. Our Union is widely recognized as both Strong and Great and I will continue in the tradition set forth by those who have preceded me to be humbly dedicated to our collective success, teamwork, and commitment to those who will come after us. I have dedicated my entire career to this Local Union and will only work harder everyday, along with Oscar and the rest of our Board, to continue achieving our goals and objectives!

El mes pasado notificamos a los afiliados sindicales sobre los cambios positivos que han tenido lugar en nuestro sindicato Local y en nuestra entera organización. Con mucho orgullo les comunico que nuestro hermano Oscar de la Torre ha sido elegido para encabezar nuestros esfuerzos en el Concilio de Obreros del Norte de California (Northern California District Council Of Laborers) durante los próximos cuatro años. Nuestras mas sinceras gracias a todos los miembros que apoyaron este gran esfuerzo! Mientras que intentamos florecer y sobrevivir en épocas económicas desafiantes, el compromiso de Oscar De La Torre en proteger nuestra pensión y seguro medico es incomparable mientras que su defensiva agresiva en la mesa de negociaciones ha sido un cambio necesario que tuvo que ser hecho en nuestro Concilio.

Moviéndonos Hacia Adelante: En el sector privado, nos estamos ajustando para comenzar negociaciones para establecer un Nuevo Contrato en la segunda mitad del 2010. Estaré hablando con todos ustedes los detalles concretos y dándoles informes sobre progresos regulares mientras nos acercamos a sesiones de desarrollo completo. ¡Estoy seguro que con este nuevo liderazgo en el Concilio de Obreros del Norte de California tendremos un panel de negociadores que harán todo lo posible por conseguir el mejor convenio para nuestros merecedores miembros! En el sector público, espero con ansias seguir trabajando con éxito y en equipo con el condado de la ciudad de San Francisco, la Autoridad de Vivienda, el Distrito Escolar, y el Colegio de la Ciudad. Les quiero garantizar que a medida que vamos hacia adelante, estaremos trabajando muy de cerca con representantes sindicales (Shop Stewards) y miembros del Comité de la Ciudad con el propósito de que podamos asegurar que en todas las situaciones de negociación colectiva estemos bien preparados, que empecemos temprano, nos vayamos tarde, y que en este ambiente económico tan malo, sepamos que no dejamos nada sobre la mesa.

También tengo el honor de haber sido nombrado por la Mesa Directiva para servir como el nuevo Gerente General de el Local 261. Nuestro sindicato ha sido extensamente reconocido tanto como grande, como también fuerte. Humildemente continuaré con el compromiso y la tradición dedicado a seguir con nuestro éxito colectivo, a seguir trabajando en equipo, y seguir comprometido para aquellos que andan con nosotros y aquellos que me han precedido. ¡He dedicado mi carrera entera a este Sindicato Local y no puedo más que trabajar duro todos los días junto con Oscar y nuestra Directiva para continuar conseguir nuestras metas y objetivos!

Fraternally/Fraternalmente,
Ramon Hernandez
Business Manager/Gerente General

Changes at the Local Union signal a new begining. Brother Hernandez to be Local 261 Business Manager, Oscar De La Torre to lead NCDCL!

2009-08-25T21:40:00.000-07:00

Today, as a result of Oscar De la Torre's recent election win changes were made at the Local Union. Ramon Hernandez will take over as the Business Manager and will be joined by David De La Torre who will serve the Union as its Secretary-Treasurer. Jesus Villalobos, Javier Flores, and Vince Courtney will serve as President, Vice President, and Recording Secretary in that order. We are also pleased with the fact that Brother De La Torre has agreed to stay on as one of two Executive Board members joining Jose De La Mora as the other.
Ramon Hernandez will dispatch a communication to all members in the next week or two.

Oscar De La Torre Elected Northern California District Council of Laborers Business Manager!

2009-08-21T20:20:00.000-07:00

August 21, 2009, Pleasanton, CA: Naturally, the Local 261 delegates supported the Oscar De La Torre ticket (http://unitethencdcl.blogspot.com) Ramon Hernandez, David De La Torre, Jesus Villalobos, were joined by the rest of the majority of the NCDCL in selecting De La Torre to be responsible for coordinating Master Agreement Negotiations, selecting Employee Trustees for the Pension and Healthcare and for overseeing united action from our NCDCL for the members we serve!

Local 261 Non Profit Community Partnership with A. Philip Randolf Institute!

2009-08-18T14:40:00.000-07:00

Dear Brothers & Sisters:
We are pleased to announce The Laborers 261 Community Service and Training Foundation has agreed to partner with the San Francisco Chapter of the A. Philip Randolph Institute on the 3rd Annual Thanksgiving Turkey and Food Basket Giveaway.

We plan on providing over 500 families living in the Bayview Hunters Point area with full Thanksgiving meals. Most of the residents we will serve live below the poverty line and are some of the highest proportion of public aid recipients in San Francisco. This program will ensure these low income residents will have a hearty meal to serve their families on Thanksgiving Day.

We look forward to your support of the 3rd Annual Thanksgiving Turkey and Food Basket Giveaway to ensure this event is a success.

When: November 26, 2009
8:00am-5:00pm
Where: TBD
Check back for more details. Or check APRIsf.org

Sincerely,
Oscar De La Torre
Business Manager/Secretary-Treasurer

LiUNA!, One Minute Update!

2009-08-10T22:31:00.000-07:00

General President Tells National Policy Makers: Weatherization Investment Can Create Good Jobs

LIUNA General President Terry O'Sullivan told top policy makers that investing in home weatherization can create good jobs, save working people money and help free the nation from dependence on foreign oil. "A penny saved is a penny earned and in the case of home weatherization, billions saved is billions earned," O'Sullivan told the Clean Energy Summit at the University of Nevada Las Vegas. Among those attending were President Bill Clinton, Vice President Al Gore, Senator Harry Reid and T. Boone Pickens. O'Sullivan warned that new jobs won't automatically be good jobs. "If it doesn't put green in working peoples' pockets, it's not a green job," he said. At least 100 million American homes need weatherization work, which would save homeowners hundreds of dollars a year and pay for itself in energy savings. Weatherization also means tens of thousands of potential new jobs. To meet the challenge, the LIUNA Education and Training Fund has developed a comprehensive 5-week weatherization program for trainees to learn weatherization and construction skills. LIUNA Local 55 members in New Jersey are already at work weatherizing homes. See them in action.

I Build America Activists Fight for Health Care Reform, Good Jobs

LIUNA's I Build America activists are being heard by Congress with thousands of personal calls and email letters urging passage of health care reform that would cover everyone and control costs. They're also on the frontlines of the fight for good jobs, pushing Congress not to delay passage of a new Surface Transportation Bill, which would support or create as many as 2 million jobs. Join the ranks of thousands of your LIUNA brothers and sisters as an I Build America activist by sending a message to your Senator to build America, so America works by investing in our nation's transportation systems.
Tell a friend Join!

Vote Garamendi for Congress!

2009-07-30T11:27:00.000-07:00

LiUNA!, Local 261 Endorses John Garamendi
ON JOBS:

Improve Transportation
We must build critical infrastructure. The movement of people, goods, and information is critical to our economic and environmental future. We must invest in public transportation systems as much as we invest in highways. High speed rail, light rail buses, metro systems and highways are essential. Congestion is slowing the economy. In our cities, the speed of travel is declining to 1910 levels. Infrastructure is more than transportation - it is water and sanitation systems, education and research facilities, communication facilities, the flood levees, and the renewable energy systems that we must come to rely upon.

Garamendi Website

Walnut Creek Office

1661 Botelho Drive at South California Blvd. (next to Petco)

Call us at 925-979-1050
Fairfield Office

2330 Boynton Avenue at Beck Ave.

Call us at 707-427-7228

LiUNA!, One Minute UPDATE

2009-07-01T11:02:00.000-07:00

LIUNA Backs Jobs-Creating Action by U.S. House
Last week the U.S. House passed the American Clean Energy and Security Act (ACES). ACES is a balanced approach to addressing climate change that will protect our environment, develop diverse energy resources and help create a new generation of green jobs in the construction industry. LIUNA supports the bill which includes Davis-Bacon prevailing wage protections and career path opportunities to make sure green jobs are also good jobs. The U.S. Senate has begun hearings on climate change bills and should bring a bill to the floor of the senate soon.

1minUpdate: IBA, Solis memo, Pulte

2009-05-31T16:04:00.000-07:00

1minUpdate: IBA, Solis memo, Pulte
What a Difference a New Labor Secretary MakesWith only months on the job, Labor Department Secretary Hilda Solis has notified federal agencies of increased OSHA inspections to help make projects funded by the economic recovery plan safer. You can read Solis' memo to federal agencies regarding safety enforcement by clicking here. The action begins to reverse eight years of Bush Administration efforts to strip OSHA of its safety enforcement powers.

Hire Hall Procedures.

2009-05-21T16:08:00.000-07:00

Dear Members,
This will inform you of new changes to the hiring hall procedures.
Effective Thursday, September 3, 2009, if you are on the out-of-work list, you are required to answer to roll call in person between the hours of 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Roll call will be in person the first Thursday of each month from now on.
The hall will continue with the telephonic hiring hall system. You will be dispatched via telephone; you do not have to be present at the hall.
Job call hours remain the same between 6:30 a.m. and 9:00 a.m., Monday through Friday.
Registration on the out-of-work list will continue to be in person Monday through Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m.
Because of the volume of members on the out-of-work list, and to speed things along, please have your membership card, picture i.d. or social security number available when you reach the window to answer to roll call.
Fraternally,
Oscar De La Torre
Business Manager/Secretary-Treasurer
___________________________
Estimados Miembros,
La presente les informara de los NUEVOS CAMBIOS que se han hecho en el procedimiento del salón de contratación.
Efectivo Jueves, Septiembre 3 2009, si su nombre esta en la lista de espera de trabajo, se requerirá que se presente en persona entre 9:00 a.m. a 11:00 a.m. De ahora en adelante, se pasara lista (Roll Call) con los miembros presentes en la Unión cada primer jueves del mes. Si usted no se presenta, será tumbado de la lista.
El despacho seguirá siendo vía telefónica. Este procedimiento no cambiara, para lo cual No Se Necesitara Que Este Presente todos los días, pero si que este al pendiente de su teléfono durante las horas de despacho.
Las horas de contratación seguirán siendo de 6:30 a.m. a 9:00 a.m., de lunes a viernes.
Para registrarse en la lista de espera, seguirá siendo en persona de lunes a viernes de 8:00 a.m. a 9:00 a.m.
Debido al volumen de trabajadores en la lista de espera, y para apresurar el procedimiento, favor de traer su tarjeta de membresía, identificación, o Seguro Social disponible cuando se acerque a la ventanilla para pasar lista.
Fraternalmente,
Oscar De La Torre
Gerente General/Secretario/Tesorero

US Senator Dianne Feinstein briefs Oscar De La Torre on E.F.C.A status.

2009-05-20T08:03:00.000-07:00

Washington D.C. - US Senate Hart Building: This morning United States Senator Dianne Feinstein and her staff met with Oscar De La Torre, the SF delegation of Laborers' Local 261 and constituents from business groups, faith based organizations, and student groups among others for over an hour.
Following a discussion about a number of policy related matters such as Global/Environmental issues and Health care, Feinstein read very disappointing Statewide election results from last night and added that California has virtually become "ungovernable" as a result of these and other financial setbacks.
Referring to term limits as a "mistake" and the two thirds requirement to pass a State budget as a roadblock to progress in this economic climate, Feinstein recalled the the better days of Willie L. Brown, Jr. as Speaker who could get things done in such situations because he had the power to make things happen.
Employee Free Choice Act UPDATE:
Oscar (pictured above discussing new her highlights with the Senator before about a hundred constituents,) asserted that the "changes" that working people have been looking forward to in this new Obama administration included the passage of the EFCA legislation and furthermore, that he believed that Senator Feinstein's support for working people would be critical for such legislation;
The Senator from San Francisco deliberately referred to the issue as "polarizing" while acknowledging that action still needed to be taken. She offered that her office was working diligently on a package that maintained the "secret ballot." Feinstein notified De La Torre and the constituent group that this was the first public disclosure of highlights of her ideas for such action in anticipation of movement on the issue which include:
1. Contracts to be executed in one year or less;
2 a mechanism for implementation of the "last best offer" (a practice of the SF Fire Fighters and Police Officers Association;)
3. the introduction of a "neutral panel" for purposes of resolving such an impasse;
4. a mechanism for protection of the opportunity for a secret ballot while instituting a strict penalty assessment for current anti-union management tactics.

While it appears clear that the Senator will likely not support EFCA as we know it, there is a window of opportunity for organized labor to continue a diligent lobbying effort at her office to shape the future of EMPLOYEE FREE CHOICE!

The Laborers' Union will continue to work with Ahmad R. Thomas, Senator Feinstein's Legislative Assistant on Labor matters in DC with the hope that he will be able to continue to update our Union on specifics as they become available. in the meantime. FREE CHOICE NOW!

Get Out The Vote!!! Critical Statewide Vote Tomorrow!

2009-05-18T20:35:00.000-07:00

Brothers & Sisters: By now you have read to voter information handbook and have received your Local 261 State card in the mail. Please remember to vote YES Tuesday as the dominos are likely to fall in the event that these important revenue measures fail across the state!
(Pictured: US Speaker Pelosi addresses Oscar De La Torre and an SF Labor Delegation in Washington DC the day before the election on topics raging from the Financial Crisis in California, E.F.C.A, and healthcare.)

SF Supervisor Alioto Honors 261 Members while Oscar De La Torre pitches Employee Free Choice Act!

2009-03-24T16:44:00.000-07:00

Today, SF Supervisor Michela Alioto-Pier and the rest of the Board of Supervisors honored the Union's Chief Stewards Adrian Field, Local 261 Public Employee City Committee Chair (Park Section Supervisor SFRPD)Theresa Foglio, Local 261 Public Employee City Committee Co-Chair/Local 261Chief Steward (General Laborer SFDPW)Edison Fincher, Local 261 Chief Steward (General Laborer SFDPW)Terry McDevitt, Local 261 Chief Steward/Chair, Local 261 Law & Leg.Committee (Gardener SFRPD)Joan Vellutini, Local 261 Chief Steward/Chair, Local 261 ProfessionalStandards/Apprenticeship Committee (Gardener SFRPD)Deshelia Mixon, Local 261 Chief Steward (Gardener SFDPW)at the SF Board of Supervisors meeting. See the video here at March 24, 2009 #22

"These employees and members have all served the membership (900 City employees) and the City exceptionally well. What makes them truly worth recognizing is the many ways that they each take pride in (and contribute to,) their community, City Department, and San Francisco as a whole. Adrian Field has the distinction of being the only official Supervisor of the group. He has responsibility in the Parks Department for possibly the highest profile location in the City (Mission Dolores) and has maintained a constant coolness and calmness to our entire group as he conducts monthly meetings that cover subject matter far outside the normal business of the jurisdiction that he serves. He trains new workers everyday and assists them at job-readiness as they often come directly from high-risk communities of youth.Terry and Joan have not only served both the rank and file workers in their Department, but the RPD Supervisors as well in the SFRPD by offering updated ordinance info (such as the Alioto measure regarding Leave,) mediation and alternative dispute resolution to prevent unnecessary case filings, and support related to budget items, medical matters and retirement matters. They have spent an incredible amount of their personal time working on matters that affect the Laborers' Union and the Parks system including but not limited to building a relationship with our friends in the Parks Trust and in the Neighborhood Parks Council that will stand the test of time. These relationships assist us most in being able to specifically state to the elected officials with clarity all of the many common ground issues that we agree on instead of the very few things we have yet to see eye to eye on. Joan's efforts at the apprenticeship Committee should ultimately lead to job opportunities for residents of San Francisco that have not ever existed before. Joan (a 37 year professional horticulturist in GGP,) has been a critical participant in what you will likely come to know as the first ever State Certified Gardener Apprenticeship program in the California. She along with the other Committee Members will assist in the creation of criteria and education components which distinguishes the program from other"Trades" so that the Gardener profession that the Parks Trust and NPC people want for us all is not under utilized. Terry works very closely with me on most legal matters. He has the trust of his co-workers and has demonstrated that commitment for the past two decades.Theresa, Edison, and Nikki single-handedly bring organization to chaos at the DPW. The have assisted management at all levels by streamlining labor relations issues and choosing to work with a scalpel rather than a grenade when enforcing the contract for the members we serve. They are polite, professional and always prepared. Edison is Mohammed's go to guy. He almost singlehandedly secured a shift bid system for workers at the Department that now affects morale in a most positive way every year! Theresa and Nikki are the young professionals most recently appointed to the Mayor's Open Space Task Force who bring the most dedicated style to the program we take pride in. They all serve the Local 261 Political Action Committee and walk precincts and register voters. Most recently, they lead the Park Bond volunteer effort for Local 261.All in all (note: 3 women!) these six Union officials have become the straw that stirs the drink in the public sector. They have worked closely with the Mayor's office on Green Connect, Volunteer matters, Apprenticeship, Training, alternate work programs, and many other matters that public employees simply like to say NO to. In short, these are the persons in the Local Union most likely to put in the extra hours free of charge and to say to the city, YES, how can WE help?"
-SF Supervisor Michela Alioto

CA LiUNA! Political Captains make May 2009 Special Election decisions in Sacramento!

2009-03-17T23:48:00.000-07:00

Sacramento, CA:
Today, Laborers' Local 261 joined Local Unions across California to weigh in on important issues facing the State during an unprecedented fiscal crisis. In addition to endorsing Incumbent US Senator Barbara Boxer, the Captains endorsed State Propositions 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D and 1E following a presentation from Craig Cornet. Later in the evening many elected officials joined Local 261 at a reception to discuss State and Local issues.
Local 261 membership should know that we are joined by State Senator Mark Leno (D) San Francisco and State Assemblywoman (Majority Whip) Fiona Ma (D) San Francisco as well.
(pictured: Top: LiUNA! VP Rocco Davis, CA Assemblywoman Fiona Ma, and Oscar De La Torre and Bottom: Oscar, Joseph JC Scott (LiUNA! #389,) and CA State Senator Mark Leno.

LiUNA! Advocates for Economic Recovery Plan!

2009-03-03T15:01:00.000-08:00

LIUNA Members Flood Congress with Calls and EmailsThousands of LIUNA members flooded Congress with a total of 13,463 phone calls and email letters - all with the message: America needs an economic recovery plan that creates jobs building America, not more tax breaks for those who helped cause the economic crisis. Thanks in part to pressure from LIUNA members, the final version of the bill deletes a $12 billion tax handout to corporate homebuilders and invests $100 billion in jobs fixing America's basics. Tens of thousands of construction jobs are expected to be created for LIUNA members through the Economic Recovery Plan. Share your local stories on jobs and investing in America's basics, email http://webmail.netwiz.net/hwebmail/services/go.php?url=mailto%3Acommunications%40liuna.org.

LiUNA! General President Applauds President Obama's Executive Orders!

2009-02-10T10:53:00.000-08:00

President Barack Obama has signed four executive orders that reverse orders by the Bush Administration and begin to halt attacks on workers and their unions.

"The Bush Administration took every opportunity to undermine working people and their unions. President Obama has begun to reserve those actions," said General President Terry O'Sullivan.

The executive orders:

Encourage federal agencies to consider requiring construction contractors and subcontractors to enter into Project Labor Agreements on federal projects of $25 million or more. The move reverses a Bush order which banned federal PLA requirements.

Reverses a Bush Administration order requiring federal contractors to post a biased notice to workers on jobsites, informing them of procedures to withhold paying their fair share of union dues. Federal contractors will now be required to post a fair and balanced notice informing workers of their right to form and join a union.

Prohibits the use of taxpayer money for efforts by federal contractors to interfere with employees trying to form or join a union.

Reverses a Bush Administration order by requiring that when a federal service contract expires and a contract is awarded to a new contractor for the same work at the same location, the new contractor must offer jobs to the previous contractor's service employees.

The General President said the orders will "help build America by ensuring that projects are completed on time and on budget with good pay, benefits and skills training which opens doors to new opportunities for workers and contractors alike, and will help to level the playing field for working people."

Laborers' Local 261 Supports Dennis Herrera in Re-Election Bid

2009-01-23T22:00:00.000-08:00

Today, the Local Union Officially Endorsed Dennis Herrera for City Attorney of San Francisco. A longtime friend of Local 261, Herrera has been frequently thrust into the national spotlight regarding politically charged high profile cases while gaining the reputation around town as one of the most effective City Attorney's our City has ever had.

You can visit the Campaign's website here.

Local 261 Endorses Jose Cisneros for a second term as City's top Money Manager!

2009-01-23T17:34:00.000-08:00

In September 2004, Mayor Gavin Newsom appointed José Cisneros Treasurer for the City and County of San Francisco. As Treasurer, José serves as the City's banker and chief investment officer, managing all tax and revenue collection for San Francisco. Treasurer Cisneros uses his 25 years of financial expertise gained in both business and public service to maximize the City’s revenue through smart, socially responsible investments and aggressive tax collection.

Today, The Executive Board/membership made it official and endorsed Cisneros for a second term!

Newsom Easily Re-Elected As Mayor Of San Francisco

2007-11-07T00:59:00.000-08:00

San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom, a Democrat best-known for opening City Hall to same-sex weddings six weeks into his first term, was re-elected Tuesday after easily eclipsing a field of candidates that included a colorful cast of characters but no serious rivals.

Despite low voter turnout and an equipment snafu that hampered election officials in tallying results from polling places, an early absentee ballot count gave Newsom an insurmountable lead over his nearest opponent.

Though a formal declaration may still be days off because of the vote-counting problem, Newsom all but declared victory before a crowd of supporters at the city's historic Ferry Building.

"We are feeling pretty good," Newsom told a subdued gathering that offered a sharp contrast to his raucous victory party four years ago at the Fillmore Auditorium. "I think what has happened tonight is the voters of San Francisco have indicated we are moving in the right direction."

The SFPUC Hetch-Hetchy Project Agreement - Billions for workers!

2007-03-27T21:59:00.000-07:00

Discussion and Negotiations are concluded on work for our membership that may last for decades. A link is coming soon. See below:

PROJECT LABOR AGREEMENT

This Project Labor Agreement (hereinafter, the “Agreement”) is entered into this March
27, 2007 by and between the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission, its successors or
assigns, and the construction contractors and subcontractors of whatever tier directly
executing this Agreement or the Letter of Assent, (hereinafter, collectively, the
“Contractor” or “Contractors”) and the signatory craft unions (hereinafter, collectively
the “Union” or “Unions”), with respect to the construction work within the scope of this
Agreement owned by the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (hereinafter, the
“SFPUC” or the “Owner”) and financed by the funds authorized pursuant to the revenue
Bond Proposition A and by Proposition E, passed by the voters of San Francisco on
November 5, 2002, and designated for the construction or major renovation/seismic
upgrade of the water delivery system.

It is understood by the parties to this Agreement that if this Agreement is acceptable to
the SFPUC pursuant to Proposition E section 8B.127 November 2002, it will become the
policy of the SFPUC that the construction work covered by this Agreement shall be
contracted exclusively to Contractors who agree to be bound by the terms of this
Agreement through execution of it or the Letter of Assent. The SFPUC, through its
Designated Representative shall administer this Agreement and shall monitor compliance
with it by all Contractors and Unions. For purposes of this Agreement, each Contractor
recognizes and appoints the Designated Representative as its agent, with full,
independent authority to implement and administer this Agreement and, when and if
appropriate or necessary, negotiate amendments to this Agreement. Together with the
Union parties, the SFPUC shall be considered a “negotiating party” of this Agreement.

Local 261 coordinates City-wide campaign to Elect Tom Harrison to Retirement Board ($13,000,000)

2006-08-15T10:03:00.000-07:00

Laborers' Local 261 have been working around the clock to elect former Executive Board Members Tom Harrison to the SFERS Board of Trustees. Should Tom succeed, the Union will have a direct link to the Fund and will be able to deliver investment opportunities to our signatory contractors who have building projects in the pipeline.

Current Retirement Board Members Al Casciato (SFPD,) Joe Driscoll (SFFD,) and San Francisco Supervisor Sean Elsbernd are supporting Tom because Tom knows that a change from a defined benefit to anything else would be unacceptable to the employees and retirees. Tom knows that if not for the Labor Unions’ actions across the State, the Governor and his friends would have been successful at changing PERS. Tom knows how to work well with the other Trustees to ensure that the system (108% funded) continues to grow for its beneficiaries.

The Union has already been successful at securing support/endorsement city-wide from Mayor Newsom, Supervisor Chris Daly, Supervisor Sean Elsbernd, the Firefighter's Union, the TWU, The SFBCTC, and almost ALL other bargaining units in SF to unseat an incumbent of 14 years!

Special thanks to Mayor Gavin Newsom,

SF Supervisor Chris Daly, and

SF Supervisor Sean Elsbernd.

Endorsements:
San Francisco Labor Council
San Francisco Firefighters’ Union Local 798, IAFF
Retired Firefighters and Widows
Laborers’ Union LIUNA Local 261
San Francisco Building and Construction Trades Council
Bay Area Union Labor Party
Public Employee Committee of the San Francisco Labor Council
S.E.I.U. - United Healthcare Workers West
S.E.I.U. - Rec. & Park Chapter
Deputy Sheriffs’ Association
Plumbers’ Union UA Local 38
Electricians’ Union IBEW Local 6
Teamsters’ Union Local 853
Teamsters’ Union Local 350
Iron Workers Union Local 377
Transport Workers’ Union Local 250A
Carpenters’ Local 2236
Carpenters’ Local 22
Operating Engineers Union Local 3
Department Heads of the Municipal Executives Association
Stationery Engineers Local 39
International Longshore & Warehouse Union Local 6
Plasterers’ and Cement Masons Local 300
Auto, Marine & Specialty Painters Union Local 1176
Glaziers Union Local 718
Hod Carriers Union Local 36
Roofers and Waterproofers Local 40
Bricklayers, Tilesetters and Allied Crafts Workers (BAC) Local 3
International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees Local 16
Sign and Display Local 510

Early Ratified Agreement subjects workers to preventable losses.

2006-05-15T09:54:00.000-07:00

At the NCDCL meeting today, the proposed Master Agreement language was adopted in a tight vote. Procedurally, there were almost two more months to work with to obtain a better deal for the workers. The new agreement, while calling for modest wage increases, provides that the company can now stagger shifts to eliminate overtime, and work employees through the lunch breaks without economic repercussions. Non-economic language for the Union members amounted to little or nothing.

NCDCL Master Agreement Negotiations: Opportunities Missed?

2006-05-01T09:47:00.000-07:00

The UDCC provides that negotiations shall commence on a certain date. During many sessions, there were efforts to move toward a real monetary discussion starting with 5.00/hr.

Through these efforts, the Council should always be able to provide the members we represent an opportunity to decide whether as a last option they want to make the company's feel their pain through a last-resort Strike Action!

Local 261 submits proposals for thoughtful discussion

2006-03-01T09:51:00.000-08:00

Today, LiUNA, Local 261 submitted its proposals for consideration by the negotiations team for incorporation into formal negotiations into the NCDCL Master Agreement process.

The proposals are as follows:

Mayor Newsom gives Local 261's City Workers a "bump" in pay $$$!

2005-05-15T10:18:00.000-07:00

Today, Tom Harrison and myself put the finishing touches on a new premium pay package for over 800 Local 261 members. The package falls under cross-training and public outreach and goes to EVERY MEMBER of the Local 261 bargaining unit!

First Ever Jointly Administered Apprenticeship program with Government put together by Local 261/SF Mayor!

2004-08-09T10:22:00.000-07:00

In an unprecedented move, the City and county in an effort to create job opportunities for residents, has teamed up with Local 261 to train workers for placement with our signatory contractors. Conversations with Mayor Newsom moved quickly to formal program guidelines. The City will guarantee the hours, the state will certify the program and the City will PAY the NCDCL Training Center for the training even though the workers initiations and dues are also covered by the City.

A great public/partnership has been created that "links" the Local Government, the Signatory contractors, the Local Union and District council, and the Community!

Gavin Newsom, San Francisco's next Mayor!

2003-12-07T10:14:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to all who worked on this important campaign. As you know the US President and Vice-President had to weigh in on this one in the end and our Local Union was there from the very beginning.

Local 261 members know how important it is for their representatives to take a 24/7 approach to our work. the members joined me every step of the way, and as a result, we have a friend in the top spot now. Great job everyone!

Perceived longshot Newsom wins Primary, thanks Laborers' 261!

2003-11-05T22:09:00.000-08:00

Tonite, I had the honor of introducing our next Mayor as he moves toward a runoff in December. Newsom has been pro-development and pro-Local 261, since being appointed by Mayor Willie L. Brown as SF Supervisor. Congratulations go out to the hundreds of Local 261 members who worked countless hours on this highly contested campaign. Let us see this through the rest of the way and elect Gavin our next Mayor!