To                    Active, Associate & Independent Contractors

From                Walter P. Palmer, 3rd President & CEO

Subject:            LABOR NEGOTIATIONS UPDATE 

At this time negotiations are ongoing, productive and progress is being made towards an agreement.  Although April 30th is still several days away and many outcomes are possible. It is vital that all GBCA Members and Independent Contractors are clear on the status of negotiations and the conduct as a member of the Bargaining Unit. 

 Still unresolved are the Carpenters, Cement Masons and Laborers, which contracts terminate April 30, 2009 and the Rodsetters, whose contract terminates on June 30, 2009. All of these teams are meeting and have dates set to meet throughout the week, with the exception to the Rodsetters which will commence negotiations at a later date. 

 The Labor Policy Committee discussed many scenarios as this deadline of April 30th approaches. If there is a work stoppage, by one or more trades, the GBCA is encouraging all projects that can safely open to do so. The GBCA is recommending separate gates so trades with agreements can continue to work while others continue to bargain. The Association is asking all signatory contractors who have sub contractors who have signed retroactive not to permit them to work on these projects. Remind those who have signed retroactive that our bargaining teams are working to protect their interest as well.  Failure of any signatory contractor not following these recommendations erodes the bargaining position of the GBCA and ultimately hurts future efforts in the industry.  Of course this is only if there is a work stoppage. 

 GBCA is prepared to speak to any owner, architect or contractor who is concerned about their job and its progress. Our decisions and agreements today have a long lasting affect on owner’s ability to build in the future. It is important that the industry works in concert for the most effective and efficient contracts in the industry. 

 Please continue to check back with Labor Link for updates on labor negotiations.