FORGING AHEAD: BUILDING WORKER POWER IN 2024

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

2024 is off to a great start! I am thrilled to share some recent highlights and updates from our union, as we continue to strive for progress and success within District Council 35.

I am pleased to report that our Annuity Fund fiscal year return for 2023 was 5.11%. We understand there has been some frustration in the time lag for this report. To help understand the complexity of the reporting, much is due to the diversification of the portfolio and when certain investment categories post their returns at staggered dates, it slows the final reporting. Once we have the final information our team of auditors go through every investment manager return reported and the overall balance sheet of the Annuity Fund. This takes some additional time in mailing, you the members, these statements.

Martin Luther King Jr. Breakfast

Our recent Martin Luther King Day breakfast hosted by DC 35 welcomed again the CBTU Coalition of Black Trade Unionists. This event was a powerful reminder of the importance of unity and solidarity within our community. As union members, we are a vital part of the labor movement, and for us to succeed we must stand together. Events like these remind us of the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and our responsibility for the ongoing fight for equality and justice.

Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg and New Hampshire Senators Visit Brentwood

We were honored to host U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and New Hampshire Senators Jeanne Shaheen and Maggie Hassan at our training facility in Brentwood. It was an excellent opportunity to demonstrate how union apprenticeship programs are a key part of the union difference and showcase our state-of-the-art training center. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Deal is set to bring thousands of good union jobs our way, providing over $1 billion in new investment for bridges and roads in New Hampshire alone. This spending is a testament to the importance of having elected officials who are looking out for working people, not just the super wealthy. The Biden administration’s infrastructure investment is already helping to spark growth in the union apprenticeship programs essential to expanding our skilled workforce and rebuilding and maintaining our nation’s infrastructure.

We started off the year with a recovery event. Along with DC 35 members, staff and representatives of the Massachusetts Building Trades Unions. We spoke with tradespeople about the effects of substance use disorder and what we as union siblings can do to help those who are struggling. Being part of a union family means that we look out for each other on and off the job site. We care about each other as people, not just as workers. Substance use disorder is a serious issue that affects many of us in the construction industry. By facilitating open conversations, we are saving lives and prioritizing health and well-being. If you or someone you know needs help, we have resources available 24 hours a day 7 days a week through Modern Assistance and our Peer Support Programs, so don’t hesitate to reach out for help.

I would like to announce and welcome a new addition to the Leadership Team at DC 35 Local 1952 Representative James Coughlin. We have high expectations for Brother Coughlin, working with Business Representative Michael Lafferty on the day-to-day business that affects our membership in the Custodian Local Unions 1952 and 1911. I know Brother Coughlin is up for the challenge and will work closely with the entire Leadership Team for guidance in this new role.

As we look ahead to the rest of 2024, I am filled with optimism and excitement for what lies ahead. Our union is stronger than ever, thanks to the hard work and dedication of each and every one of you. Together, we will continue to advocate for our members, support workforce development, advocate for policies and politicians who care about working families, and ensure that our voices are heard.