Public Employee Press

Blue-collar exec boards study leadership

The executive boards of Blue Collar Division Locals 1505, 1508 and 1597 strengthened their leadership skills at AFSCME's intense three-day Leadership Academy Nov. 19-21 in Atlantic City, N.J.

DC 37's national union, the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, invited the local leaders to participate in the program of classes and workshops.

"All three locals had administrative and financial problems in the past. AFSCME's goal is to ensure that those difficulties do not arise again," said DC 37 Blue Collar Division Director José Sierra.

A stronger union

AFSCME Field Education Coordinator Yolanda Medina led the program, which followed a week of special training for Council Reps Tony Mammalello, Bob Gervasi, Yolanda Johnson and Edwin Badillo, who work with the locals. Local 1505 includes City Park Workers, Park Service Workers, Debris Removers and Attendants; Local 1508 represents uniformed Parks supervisors and Local 1597 is made up of custodial employees.

At the academy, local officers examined their local constitutions and AFSCME's in detail and participated in exercises on union rules and procedures. "The reps pinpointed specific examples to help officers understand their responsibilities," Sierra said. "By using small groups, we achieved a greater level of participation."

The local leaders committed to initiatives that include organizing and reaching out to new members, increasing participation in AFSCME's Next Wave program for members under 35, running more effective membership meetings and developing Web sites.

"Shop stewards are the first line of communication between members and the union, and we realized that we need more," said Local 1508 Recording Secretary Mike Santiago.

"This is the best-planned training I have ever attended," said Local 1505 President Dilcy Benn. "We were energized by all the information."

"We strongly believe the city should focus on generating revenue and stop targeting public employees' jobs, pensions and benefits and the vital services we provide," said DC 37 Executive Director Lillian Roberts, the training program's keynote speaker.

—Diane S. Williams