#United States #Labor Union #Santa Rosa #Teamsters Local 665 #Northgate Ready Mix

Northgate Ready Mix Drivers Join Teamsters Local 665

In a significant move towards securing better working conditions, ready mix drivers at Northgate Ready Mix in Santa Rosa and Sonoma have officially voted to join Teamsters Local 665. Their successful card check election marks a pivotal moment for employees at one of the Bay Area's largest concrete suppliers. Here’s what you need to know about this monumental decision and what it means going forward.

A Unified Stand for Fair Compensation

The recent election outcome was largely motivated by the drivers' desire for better wages, quality healthcare, and job stability. According to Tony Delorio, the Secretary-Treasurer of Local 665, this collective action helps elevate the standards for ready mix drivers across the country. "Ready mix drivers deserve to be fairly compensated for the skilled and demanding work they perform," Delorio stated. The Teamsters have set the bar high with their contracts, leading the way in securing favorable employment conditions for similar workers throughout the Bay Area.

The 25 drivers took inspiration from the robust contracts that protect and reward unionized drivers, prompting them to recognize the importance of collective bargaining. Their decision stands as a testament to a broader trend among ready mix drivers nationwide, who increasingly see the Teamsters as a viable pathway to improved workplace conditions.

The Drivers' Perspectives

Wade Ayers, one of the newly unionized drivers at Northgate, articulated the common sentiment among his peers: "We do the exact same work as unionized ready mix drivers, yet Northgate gets away with giving us less than we deserve. It made us realize that to get the healthcare and benefits we need, we have to fight." Ayers emphasized the empowerment that comes with union membership, stating that now, as Teamsters, they finally have the resources and backing to negotiate the contracts they deserve.

The Role of Teamsters Local 665

Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters has consistently worked to represent over 1.3 million individuals in the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico. Teamsters Local 665 specifically focuses on advocating for workers in various industries, aiming to ensure fair treatment and conditions. Their commitment to growth and improvement is exemplified in this recent unionization, demonstrating that united voices can lead to significant change.

Local 665's initiative indicates the union's dedication to bolster the livelihoods of its members through robust bargaining practices. The new members look forward to negotiating a contract that not only addresses wage increments but also emphasizes the importance of job security and comprehensive healthcare benefits.

Conclusion

The Northgate Ready Mix driver's decision to unionize under Teamsters Local 665 is not just a local victory, but part of a larger movement advocating for worker rights in the ready mix industry. As drivers continue to unite and advocate for better working conditions, this latest development reinforces the notion that change is possible through collective action. For more information on the Teamsters and its initiatives, visit Teamster.org.

As this story unfolds, it serves as both a source of inspiration and a call to action for workers everywhere to pursue fair treatment and improved standards in their workplaces.