A packed Local 705 union hall today sent a loud message today that they're ready to take on UPS. Over 1,000 members turned out for a mass meeting today to show support for their negotiating committee which will meet with the company on October 25-26.

If UPS refuses to be change its tune in bargaining, Local 705 could give the company a 30-day notice to end the contract extension, raising the possibility of a strike by 10,000 UPS Teamsters around Thanksgiving.

Feeder driver Dave Bernt was one of many members celebrating solidarity after the meeting.  “It was inspiring. The membership showed incredible backing for the strong stand taken by Juan Campos and the negotiating committee,” Bernt said.

Bernt is one of a number of UPS Teamsters on the negotiating committee, along with the local leadership, led by Secretary Treasurer Juan Campos.

The issues on the table include a pension increase and improved retiree health care, a $15 starting wage and catch-up raises for part-time, and no two-tier for drivers.

The Local 705 contract is separate from the national master, and always has been.  This struggle deserves the support of our whole union and membership.

The 10,000 UPSers in Chicago are fighting for issues that led 54% of UPS Teamsters nationally to say Hell No to Hoffa’s proposed contract.

The Chicago members’ struggle is also one of key pressure points regarding winning changes in the national agreement.

The Local 705 meeting today also included nominations for officers of the 14,000-member local.

Stay tuned for updates.  You can meet members of the Local 705 negotiating committee at the TDU Convention, November 2-4, in Chicago.