Duke

My name is Keith Russell. I'm 45 years old. I have a 14 year old, David. I am a Water Plant Operator for the City of Oak Forest. I've been with the city since April of 1986 and have been a member
in good standing with Local 726. Back in '86, when we (City of
Oak Forest Employees) made the decision to join Local 726, we were looking for support and representation from a Team that stood by its members. We found exactly that in Frank Vercillo. Unfortunately, over the course of the last 8 years and under the current 726 Board, there has been a total lack of representation on our behalf and absolutely no support. The last time we had a contract settled was in 2000. Our current contract has been expired for over 3 years and all we're told is "that it's still in negotiations." Our Union Dues is comparable, if not well over
other locals and we have virtually nothing to show for it. We
have not had a raise in over 4 years and we have very minimal benefits. I am the sole financial support for my son David, and
as it stands right now, I can't even take him to the dentist or
to the eye doctor without paying for everything out of my own pocket because we have zero, or limited, vision/dental coverage. Fellow co-workers have called the Union Hall to speak to our B.A. and all they have ever been able to do is leave a message. Messages are left but calls are rarely, if ever, returned. Another fellow co-worker called the Hall for assistance on a matter and was told (quote) "...just be glad that you have a job!" That reply and these types of practices are completely unacceptable. It's time for a change for the better. It's time to unite and bring the membership back together...time to look out for the ones that count...the Membership.