On behalf of myself and my Union Brothers and Sisters, welcome to AFSCME Local 1180. This is your time to stand up for fairness and justice in your workplace, competitive pay, and better benefits. Always know that regardless of the City's tactics Local 1180 is behind you 100%.

As you probably already know, the City Administration has hired Tony Puckett, an attorney from Oklahoma City, to 'negotiate' the first Contract. We are quite familiar with Mr. Puckett, as he has been hired by cities all over Oklahoma to fight AFSCME.  Mr. Puckett and the City Administration are exhibiting the age old tactic: delay, delay, delay. This approach has been a common tactic used by employers since the beginning of Unions and is designed to decrease member moral, decrease member involvement, and increase costs to the Union. Be aware that this 'negotiating' by Mr. Puckett and the City Administration will not change any time soon. It is important that you stay strong and support your Negotiating Team during this time. When the fight is over, the united voice will prevail. If you haven't joined yet, the time is now!

Please feel free to contact me at any time with qestions or concerns.  Once again, welcome to AFSCME Local 1180!

Michael Rider, Recording Secretary