Business Manager’s Message — July 2023

The Hot Days of Summer

I am sure everyone is yearning for the May gray and June gloom to return to the skies of Southern California.

However, we know here in Los Angeles that July and August bring the heat. Please remember to take all heat safety precautions as you go about your daily jobs. Take time to cool off, and drink plenty of fluids to make sure you don’t succumb to heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

I am happy to report, after two months of grueling negotiations, the Inside Wireman, Intelligent Transportation Systems Journeyman and Apprentices have ratified a new 3-year contract. Out of 7,050 eligible Inside Wireman, 4,205 voted with 2,367 in favor to approve and 1,838 to reject the Agreement. In the Intelligent Transportation Systems unit, 491 members were eligible to vote. 187 voted with 145 voting to approve and 42 to reject their Agreement.  

Both new contracts call for a $1.80 increase starting on the July 31, 2023 pay period, with $2 increases every 6 months. This agreement could not have been reached without the outstanding participation of the membership of Local 11. From phone calls to demonstrations to “practice” picketing, they moved the employer’s negotiating team closer to a fair contract.

It is you the members who got it across the finish line. You should be proud of what we accomplished together. I am especially proud and impressed with the young workers who dedicated their time after work, calling IBEW members to stand in solidarity to secure a good contract.  

IBEW Local 11 is indeed in good hands with these future leaders. I would be remiss not to mention the tireless dedication of the Local 11 staff. Your team was out late at night and early mornings making sure all protocols were followed and everything was in order.

Now it is time to work together with our NECA partners to secure and gain more work opportunities for IBEW members. We have much to do. With all of us working together, IBEW will continue to lead the way.   

Summer Picnic, Summer Fun 

In this newsletter and on our website, www.IBEW11.org, you will find the flyer for the Local Union Annual Picnic. All members and their families are invited for a day of family fun, solidarity, delicious food, and great raffle prizes at the Hollywood Sports Park on August 5 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.  

Admittance is free to members, but you must RSVP via our website. We need to know how many will be attending so we can make sure we have enough food and refreshments.  

Also, the first Monday of September is Labor Day. Join us in Wilmington to march with your fellow IBEW Local 11 members for the largest parade west of the Mississippi.

Assembly begins at 8 a.m. with the March down Avalon Blvd. starting at 10 a.m. A rally will follow at Banning Park at 12 p.m. where there will be speakers, music, food, and drinks. See you there.   

Joël Barton
IBEW 11 Business Manager