BLET
DIVISION 333 NEXT MEETING |
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Tuesday, February 21st @ 7:00 pm
Amtrak Depot
730 Transfer Rd
St Paul,
MN
55114
map
Meetings are held every third Tuesday of the
month.
YOUR support is needed!!!
Your attendance is requested!!! |
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DIVISION 333 DUES BREAKDOWN |
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Starting Dec 31st, 2011, Payable for January 2012. **** Licensed Member
(Working as Engineer or Trainman) ****
$38/month for National
$39/month for General Committee of Adjustments
$14/month for Legislative Board
$26/month for Local dues
This is a total of $117/month, now some members pay an additional $23/month
for Disability insurance if hurt at work. Which brings the total to
$140/month starting the end of 2011. The dues pay for disability insurance
if hurt anywhere off the property (Car accident, fall off your roof, fall
out of deer stand, etc.). For a member to qualify for this insurance, they
must have a paid day as an Engineer for which month they are claiming, any
class of service as an Engineer (simulator, rules, etc.).
****
Non-Licensed Members (Trainman Only)
****
$20/month for National
$39/month for General Committee of Adjustments
$14/month for Legislative Board
$26/month for Local dues
This is a total of $99/month starting in December 2011. Now, keep when
trainmen come over to our Division they do not get disability insurance
through the BLET, but they can get a different policy through another
company and they can contact me about this.
The cost of this insurance is an additional $92/month and comes directly out
of a members check through automatic withdrawal. Which pays $2000/month for
up to 12 months.
Members can also contribute $1-$50 or more
to PAC (Political Action Committee) along with their dues. |
DIVISION BYLAWS AND CONSTITUTION |
JANUARY 17TH 2012 REGULAR MEETING |
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Members in attendance:
Dave Johnstone (Local Chairman)
Ray Koonce (Vice-President)
Thomas Wolff (Secretary / Treasurer)
Jason Carnes (Vice-Local Chairman)
Tim Rivard
Jeff Bristol
Special Guest :
Tom Perkovich from the law firm of Hunegs, LeNeave, and
Kvas
- Tom Perkovich explained the Uninsured/Underinsured
coverage through your personnel car insurance company.
It is very important to carry extra coverage on yourself
while riding in cabs so you know your covered and taken
care of, if something should happen while riding in a
cab.
- Maximize your coverage; Coverage usually costs around
$50/year more for $250,000 to $500,000 coverage.
- If hurt and you have no extra coverage of your own,
could mean being out of work and money for a long time.
- The insurance that cab companies carry is about
$1million per accident, depending on how many people are
in the cab, it is split between all crew members in the
cab.
- Railroad is suppose to supply a safe working
environment which includes cabs, if you find something
unsafe with your cab, be sure and turn it in.
Some topics Discussed:
- Brother Dennison sent an e-mail to
Brother Johnstone requesting the local to look into a
different meeting place for monthly meetings.
- Brother Anderson got feedback on IWC,
and the cost is $3/member/year, this would cost the
local about $165/year to have a membership.
- Local will look into sending a delegate and joining
the IWC at the next regular meeting.
- Brother Anderson wrote to the
Department of Health in Mason City, Iowa. In regards to
the ice machine being placed in the bathrooms of the
yard office. They had no health issues with this but did
say it could be a problem if used for other than cooling
things down should not be used for ice in liquid, could
have bacteria and germs causing sickness. OSHA will
check into it more but, no further information was
available at time of this meeting.
- Peer trainer for MVPDM still undecided, looking like
it could possibly be Engineer Dave Banks and Andy Moder.
The pay for this may only be 22days/month. No miles no
held away.
- Brother Johnstone reported that Brother
Elsberry from the General Committee of Adjustments said,
“the union and carrier have agreed on work rules and
wages for Union Pacific property and it is being writing
up”.
- Brother Wolff is looking into ordering
t-shirts for members.
- Brother Gary Rosenlund was voting in as
a Division 333 Member.
****
Brother Bristol wanted to thank everyone
for being good friends and co-workers over the years and
said he will miss working with everyone. Brother Bristol
has many plans and a full schedule already. He will
officially retire on February 2nd, 2012. We wish brother
Bristol and his family well, Congratulations Jeff!!!
****
January 17th Regular Meeting Minutes
(Password Protected) |
DECEMBER 20TH 2011 REGULAR MEETING |
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Members in attendance:
Dave Johnstone (Local Chairman)
Thomas Wolff (Secretary / Treasurer)
Mark Anderson (Legislative Rep.)
Paul Winfield (Vice-Local Chairman/Webmaster)
Special Guest :
Special Guest Dave Brown (Minnesota State Legislative
Rep. for BLET)
Some topics Discussed:
- Brother Anderson mentioned that Division 333 should
join the IWC, cost is $3/year/member (??) this to be discussed at next
meeting when price is known for sure.
- If we affiliate as a division, some of our membership
could get a scholarship for their child our grandchild or step child,
etc. The IWC gives out 6 ($1000 scholarships) each year. One family can
win more than 1 scholarship per year. You would have to be pretty lucky
for this to happen, but it could happen. Good opportunity to meet with
National Officers and get training in a variety of areas when attending
these IWC conventions. IWC will be in Minnesota in 2014.
- Brother Johnstone reported that “Safety Masters
Program” is not supposed to give money out for safety according to the
FRA.
FRA is afraid employees will not report safety issues if they are
receiving money for being safe.
- MVPDM, Superintendent seems in favor of
assigning the job (2 turns out of valley and 1 turn out
of Mason City), they will bring train from Valley Park,
tie-up and bring train back up the spine when rested.
- The 1st crew off the re58 worked up the
spine solo today.
- It is under the impression of the local
chairman (Johnstone), that equalization of miles is in
question. It is his understanding that to be equalized,
the crew must be post-96’ , if they are not , it could
possibly turn out that equalization is not mandatory
because all pre-96’ Engineers have seniority at Valley
Park.
- Connie Crumrine and Billy Pape were
voted in as Division 333 Members.
- Simulator peer trainer position was
decided and Engineer Bogema (4th district) will be in
simulator until he retires (sometime 2012) then Brother
Denison will take over.
- Operation Red block to be decided
tomorrow with Local Chairman and Superintendent.
- Peer Support and Operation Life Saver to be posted in
January 2012
- Legislative Rep. Anderson Reported
- PAC (Political Action Committee) would like more
members to donate. Berkshire Hathaway spent
1.1million in 1st Quarter 2011, Union Pacific Railroad
spent 1.6 million 1st Quarter 2011, CSX railroad spent
1.1 million 1st Quarter 2011.
- Members need to donate to this
committee, if everyone gave $5/month, that would give
the PAC $1million dollars for the year, which is nothing
compared to corporate America but it does and will make
a difference. The money helps get Railroad friendly
politicians elected.
December 20th Regular Meeting Minutes
(Password Protected) |
NOVEMBER 15TH 2011 REGULAR MEETING |
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Members in attendance:
Dave Johnstone (Local Chairman)
Ray Koonce (Vice-President)
Mark Anderson (Legislative Rep.)
Paul Winfield (Vice-Local Chairman/Webmaster)
Some topics Discussed:
- Discussed the previous
proposal that the Division join the IWC. Dues are
currently $2.00 in January it will be raised to $4.00.
It was decided that we need more input from the members.
- Also need more members
input on whether to participate in the new “Safety
Masters Program”. It appears to be another version of
Total Safety Culture. Division 333 does not want to
participate in any program that puts worker against
worker.
- Valley Park pools have
been called to operate to Mason City via Butterfield.
There has been no trip rate established yet for this run
so timeslips and/or claims are important.
- Brother Anderson
brought information on another disability and life
insurance policy from the Hartford. It takes at least 50
members to join which is hard to accomplish with smaller
Divisions such as ours.
- Brother Johnstone has
had some request to move the regular Division meetings
to the Croatian Hall in South Saint Paul, MN. This might
bring in more members to the meetings. Meeting days
would have to be changed account Tuesdays are
unavailable.
- Randy Kruckberg, Dan
Morrisset, Chad Fleming and Deana Symons were voted in
as our newest members. Welcome to the BLET Division 333.
- Valley Park pools have
been called to operate to Mason City via Butterfield.
There has been no trip rate established yet for this run
so timeslips and/or claims are important.
- Brother Anderson
brought information on another disability and life
insurance policy from the Hartford. It takes at least 50
members to join which is hard to accomplish with smaller
Divisions such as ours.
- Brother Johnstone has
had some request to move the regular Division meetings
to the Croatian Hall in South Saint Paul, MN. This might
bring in more members to the meetings. Meeting days
would have to be changed account Tuesdays are
unavailable.
- Brother Reedquist is
still recovering from his motorcycle accident. Kudos to
everyone that donated to the Brother Reedquist fund. We
rose a little over $2400.00. A special thanks to Brother
Behne for all his work raising money it was a great
success!
November 15th Regular Meeting Minutes
(Password Protected)
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OCTOBER 18TH 2011 REGULAR MEETING |
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Members in attendance:
Dave Johnstone (Local Chairman)
Jason Carnes (Vice-Local Chairman)
Mark Anderson (Legislative Rep.)
Some topics Discussed:
- Discussion of previous
proposal to join the IWC. Still need more member input.
- Discussion of Safety
Masters. Still need more member input. We must decide by
December.
recess: 20:00 -20:05
- Kudos from Mike Elsberry. The Mobilization effort for
the Strike vote was very successful. The division had
80.36 percent of members contacted, the highest
percentage in our GCA.
- Everyone who stops
their train with out authorization is being charged with
a level 5. Do not stop a train anywhere without
dispatcher approval regardless of medical condition.
- Discussed Valley Park issues with persons changing
assignments frequently to get off days by abusing the
“unassigned job” rules.
- The carrier is calling
extra Mankato Jobs form St. James. Valley Park Engineers
should put in claims for this. The claims are being
paid.
- If the Valley Park
extra board is exhausted calling procedures dictate that
the St Paul Board extra board cover vacancies and extra
jobs at Mankato. If you have not worked at Mankato in
the last 6 months then state this to the the caller.
Have them call your MOP for instructions. If we do not
protect these jobs we will lose them, which will reduce
our extra boards.
- Brother Anderson
reported on the MNSLB quadrennial convention
- Legislative Board dues will increase $2.00 on January
1, 2012 and again annually on January 1, 2013, January
1, 2014 and January , 2015 for a total increase of
$8.00. It is intention of the Board to have the Chairman
be full time during the legislative session as soon as
possible.
October 18th Regular Meeting Minutes
(Password Protected)
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SEPTEMBER 20TH 2011 REGULAR MEETING |
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Members in attendance:
Dave Johnstone (Local Chairman)
Jason Carnes (Vice-Local Chairman)
Jeff Duresky (Vice-Local Chairman)
Paul Winfield (Vice-Local Chairman)
Special Guest : Tom
Perkovich from the Hunegs, LeNeave & Kvas Law firm.
- Mr. Perkovich provided information about
whistleblower protection. Railroad workers are protected
from retaliation for reporting safety or security
violations.
Some topics Discussed:
- NMB
releases RLBC rail unions from mandatory mediation in
national freight rail negotiations.
- BLET to hold strike
authorization vote. Members will be receiving their
TrueBallot with toll-free voting instructions.
- United Steel Workers
Division 11 is on strike and picketing at Anchor Glass.
Anchor Glass is serviced by LTD08.
- Crystal Sugar is on strike in Mason City. Local
Managers are service the industry. YMC 81 services the
plant and should be entitled to a basic day. Their basic
day was cut to 74 miles account managers claim one hour
and five minutes under the FRA hours of service. Crew
should be entitled to no less than a basic day.
- Hatfield is taking
exception to crews not stopping and waiting five minutes
after passing an ABS absolute signal in yard limits. It
has been explained to us in the past that yard limits is
joint authority, and the five minute wait is not
required. Brother Johnstone will be following up on
this. We run into this same situation at SSTP.
- Valley Park jobs have
been re-bulletined to incorporate the relief job, LTB81
has been re-bulletined for the new start time, SSTP
extraboard was cut, then exhausted had to use Valley
Park extraboard to fill assignments.
- Discussed “Safety
Masters” program that 4th district engineer Kevin Hume
has put together. At this time we are neither for nor
against this program but would like more input from the
members.
September 20th Regular Meeting Minutes
(Password Protected)
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AUGUST 16TH 2011 REGULAR MEETING |
August 16th Meeting not
held for lack of members in attendance.
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JULY 19TH 2011 REGULAR MEETING |
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Members in attendance:
Dave Johnstone (Local Chairman)
Ryan Behne (President)
Ray Koonce (Vice-President)
Thomas Wolff (Secretary / Treasurer)
Jason Carnes (Vice-Local Chairman)
Mark Anderson (Legislative Rep.)
Paul Winfield (Webmaster)
Aaron Hagen
Special Guest : Tom
Perkovich from the Hunegs, LeNeave & Kvas Law firm.
- Mr. Perkovich introduced
himself and gave a background of his career.
- Mr. Perkovich made it
very clear to call firm anytime with questions, the firm likes to give
advice and guidance for any injury cases even if not used for
representation.
Some topics Discussed:
- $10 Decrease on union dues for local was passed.
Decrease in dues will take effect for August, payable in September 2011.
- Proposal for “Flood board” agreement was presented and
reviewed at this meeting, more to follow in upcoming meetings.
- Local Chairman has writing up a new “Calling procedure
guideline” for CMS to follow when calling jobs, this will also go to
GCofA for review and then onto Labor relations for review.
- Brother Richard Sholtz has been transferred from St.
James BLET local to BLET Div. 333, he will now be paying his dues to us.
- Brother Anderson reported that the Quadrennial meeting
for Legislative board is coming up on September 27th-29th, 2011 at the
Mall of America.
- BNSF derailment has caused disruption in our Service
Unit.
- Brother Johnstone reported that Brother MacAuthor has
stated that contract talks are IMPROVING.
- Motion made by Brother Behne, that our local pay the
monthly union National, Legislative, and Local dues for Local Chairman,
Secretary Treasurer, and Vice Local Chairman (Webmaster Winfield).
Motion passed.
- GCofA is increasing dues by $3/month starting on
September 1st, 2011.
July
19th Regular Meeting Minutes
(Password Protected)
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JUNE 21ST 2011 Regular Meeting |
Members in attendance:
Dave Johnstone (Local
Chairman)
Ray Koonce (Vice-President)
Jason Carnes (Vice-Local Chairman)
Some topics Discussed:
- Brother Johnstone
reported on a local chairman meeting he attended on 5/24/2011. At that
meeting superintendent Doer spoke on safety, increased number of
incidents and poor safety ranking of the Twin cities service unit. He
would like to do away with frivolous investigations and use more
training. Unit sand trains are expected to run down the spine before the
end of summer, ties are to be put in on the Omaha this year, the service
unit is $900,000 over budget for snow removal this past season.
Superintendent Doer also said Triple Crown needs to set up concrete
barriers on the ramp and provide dust control at east Minneapolis yard.
Lastly he said the 7 hours is not for main line trains, the =tl is at
72.6%, MVPDM will become MVPFW two days a week and that he wants to do
something with safety captains.
- Nurse Jane said Snap
Fitness is now available to employees.
- Brother Johnstone made a
motion to post a proposal to reduce the local division dues by the sum
of $10 per month, second by brother Carnes, 2 yes, and 0 no, the motion
passed. The proposal will be posted and voted on at the next regular
meeting.
- Labor relations have
contacted brother Johnstone and they want to negotiate a permanent flood
agreement for the Twin Cities area. The local chairman is asking for the
members input as to what they think a flood agreement should contain.
- Brother Johnstone is
sending a revised CMS calling procedure to the General Chairman for his
approval and forwarding to CMS management.
-The UTU has a tentative
agreement out to its members for ratification, and they are waiting on
the question and answers.
June 21st
Regular Meeting Minutes
(Password Protected)
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May 17th 2011 Regular Meeting |
May 17th Meeting not
held for lack of members in attendance.
Dues reduction vote will be
moved to the June 21st Regular Meeting.
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April 19TH 2011
regular MEETING |
Members in attendance:
Dave Johnstone (Local
Chairman)
Thomas Wolff (Secretary / Treasurer)
Jeff Duresky (Vice-Local Chairman)
Mark Anderson (Legislative Rep.)
Paul Winfield (Webmaster)
Some topics Discussed:
- Brother
Anderson reported that the Driver License bill has been submitted and
has passed Legislation thus far. In this bill it would exempt railroad
employees from showing there personnel drivers license to a police
officer at the scene of a crossing-at-grade accident.
- Brother
Anderson participated in the “March for middle class” on April 4th,
2011. This march is to support the workers who are fighting against the
Bill which would make Minnesota a “Right to Work” state. Right to Work,
if passed would pass as a Constitutional Amendment which makes it harder
for Gov. Dayton to veto.
- Brother
Wolff suggested the local reduce the dues by $1/month. Brother Johnstone
made a motion to post a proposal to reduce local dues by $1/month which
will off-set the $1/month increase that the National is implementing in
May 2011. Motion passed.
This will be posted and voted on at next regular meeting.
-
Electronic Devices is getting serious, please pass on information to all
brothers and sisters, If there is an incident the railroad or FRA can
subpoena your phone records from that day and prior to that day. Also,
anyone in the surrounding area, this is
SERIOUS
shut them off!!!!
- Eagle
Grove engineer is being sued for not whistling a crossing and is getting
no protection from the railroad.
- Please remind everyone that after an incident, and crew has to fill
out a report, start every sentence out with “we had a job briefing” and
then “we had a job briefing”, use this often and precious and don’t give
any more information than needed.
- There has been a bed bug situation reported in St. James Super 8,
Hotel is dealing with it and that room is not in use at this time.
- Brother MacAuthor has brought to our attention to be on the look out
for increase in tests with Signals, red flags, and restricted speed as a
result of sharply increased decertification numbers lately.
- Brother
Johnstone spoke with Superintendent Doer to try and get reserve boards
set-up for engineers, this did not happen. Despite what everyone might
have heard, the railroad offered to 75% of the engineers extra board
guarantee to only to the pools with no bonus day. Employees would
still be subject to call on 1st in, 1st out basis. And there was also no
guarantee that they were not going to cut the pools.
Omaha and all officers believe the Division turned down the Reserve board,
which in fact is a lie!!! The Reserve Board was never offered, the
Union Pacific version of a reserve board was offered, but this effected
every member and would have had to go to a vote, and we did not have the
calendar time to do this.
So if you keep hearing the Division was not cooperative, let it be known that
the railroad did not offer the Reserve Board and wanted everyone to
continue working at 75% pay and still be available for call, that way
the railroad could have there cake and eat it too!! So please if you
hear this kind of statement, set them straight as to what the unions
were offered for there membership. The railroad only offered the Reserve
Board to the trainman and this came after the UTU turned down the 75%
pay option that was offered to the Divison, the railroad did a complete 180
with the trainmen.
April 19th
Regular Meeting Minutes
(Password Protected)
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MARCH 15TH 2011
regular MEETING |
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March 15th Meeting not
held for lack of members in attendance.
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February 15TH 2011
regular MEETING |
Members in Attendance
Ryan Behne (President)
Thomas Wolff (Secretary / Treasurer)
Jason Carnes (Vice-Local Chairman)
Mark Anderson - (Legislative Rep.)
Some topics Discussed:
- Thompson apology letter will be posted in the
Divisions bulletin boards by brother Behne.
- U.S. Department of Labor sent a letter to be read at
this meeting and will also be posted in the Divisions bulletin board for
review by all members. It refers to Mr. Thompson and what positions he
cannot be allowed to hold or
work in any union or organization.
- We have lost 3 union paying members this year, Brother Mercier, Leach
and Brother Gabriel Garcia (who has joined the UTU in St. James).
- Simulator is supposed to be going to a MOP sometime in
the future.
Legislative Rep. Anderson Reported
- Brother Anderson reported that the Legislation
is working on passing something in writing that says Railroad employees
do not have to show a drivers license to peace officers at road crossing
incidents.
- This legislation should make it clear that Police
officers will not request a drivers license at these incidents.
- There is an effort in Minnesota to make M/ a “right to
work” state, which means if passed, you don’t have to belong to a union
but get all the benefits that a union negotiates in contracts.
- “Right to work” was pulled from the 1st round of a
bill because there was a huge turnout of Union employees fighting to
keep it off the bill. More information to follow as it becomes
available.
- Usually a “right to vote” state is almost always Republican control
legislation and is harder for Unions to advance any legislation.
- If something like this would pass in Minnesota it
would make Unions less strong because there would be fewer members to
support a Union. But, would still reap the benefits of contracts
negotiated by unions.
February 15th
Regular Meeting Minutes
(Password Protected)
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January 17TH 2011
regular MEETING |
Members in AttendanceDave Johnstone (Local Chairman)
Thomas Wolff (Secretary / Treasurer)
Jason Smith
Some topics Discussed:
- Brother Johnstone had a conversation with Guy
Hendricks (U.S. Labor Department) and it was decided that the “Orders
for Doing Business” should be changed or reworded in some areas.
- Brother Johnstone attended Thompson case (sentencing),
Local did receive an apology letter from Mr. Thompson.
Local can expect restitution, bonding company got a judgment, Mr.
Thompson must remain law-abiding, attend /complete Treatment. Mr.
Thompson must complete 40 hrs of community service.
- There doesn’t seem to be any new money spent on our
area, but in other areas, such as the Fairmont and South of St. James.
- Matt Schumacher from Operation Red Block spoke for a long time and was
very interesting. Drug testing guy was “boring” but, did say that
Chicago area had the highest “Drug use” failures and St. Paul had the
highest “Alcohol use” failures.
- Mobilization unit did a great job and we had a 79% voting turn out in
our local. Excellent!! Good Job everyone! We did get an “atta boy” from
the General Chairman.
- Local Disability went out of business, we are now
paying our Disability insurance through Railroad Marketing and everyone
will be responsible for paying it with direct deposit through the Union
Pacific.
- Simulator is going to be run by a MOP II, No longer a
peer trainer position.
January 17th
Regular Meeting Minutes
(Password Protected)
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December 20TH 2010
regular MEETING |
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December 20th Meeting not
held for lack of members in attendance.
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NOVEMBER 17th 2010
regular MEETING |
Members in AttendanceDave Johnstone (Local Chairman)
Ryan Behne (President)
Thomas Wolff (Secretary / Treasurer)
Mike Mercier (GC of A S/T)
Paul Winfield (Webmaster)
Paul Sutherland
Some topics Discussed:
- Brother Mercier has been attending the Jon Thompson
Court dates and the Courts were not aware of any further restitution
that the Division has submitted, Brother Mercier pointed it out to the
Courts and the Judge had to postpone the sentencing until she has time
to review all paper work. Judge has postponed the sentencing until
November 30th, 2010 at 1100 hrs. Mr. Thompson (Defendant) plans to pay
restitution in amount of $11,800.00 or approximately this amount. If Mr.
Thompson does not agree to pay, he could face a felony and set-up a 5yr
payment plan with the local. Believe it or not Mr. Thompson is the S/T
of the U.S. Army Mess Hall in Korea.
-- Brother Johnstone reported for Brother Anderson that
the High Speed rail from Chicago to Minneapolis probably isn’t going to
happen.
- Brother Johnstone traveled to Reno, Nevada for the General and
National Convention.
- Brother Mercier has stepped down from the GCofA Secretary Treasurer
position.
- Check out your new BLET newsletter for all other election results.
- Brother Johnstone reported that there were many speeches at the
National Convention and MANY of the speeches reinforced that use of Cell
phones while on duty is a big NO NO!!
- Railroads have a handheld device that WILL detect if the cell phone is
on and the Machine only costs about $500.00, so you can bet most
railroads and the FRA does have it in there possession.
- It was also reported that railroads are very close to getting cameras
inside the cab facing crews.
- Be sure to get out and vote for the National candidates when you
receive your ballot, we need to have a 50% returned ballot, Lets show
involvement in your union!!!!
- Our local has a Mobilization unit that will be making phone calls to
members to get out and vote, the Unit consists of Brother Johnstone,
Brother Wolff, Brother Behne, Brother Mark Anderson, Bother Carnes, and
Brother Jeff Duresky.
- Brother MacAuthor is planning on retiring after the Contract talks are
over.
- Power in the General committee of Adjustments went from Boone to
Chicago in respect to newly elected officers in the BLET.
- Discussed long and short term disability and Brother Johnstone is
going to call Joe Cummins and get more info.
November 17th
Regular Meeting Minutes
(Password Protected)
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October 19th 2010
regular MEETING |
Members in Attendance
Thomas Wolff (Secretary / Treasurer)
Mark Anderson - (Legislative Rep.)
Mark Billstrom
Paul Sutherland
Special Guest : Dave Brown (Minn. State Leg. Rep.)
Some topics Discussed:
- Brother Brown strongly urges members to get out and
vote for elections.
- Please fill out Ballots and get them in when you
receive them from the
national, for the elections.
- The Union endorses Mark Dayton for Governor of
Minnesota. Mr. Dayton was the only one to come and ask the Union, “What
can I do for you, if elected?" Mark Dayton will stand for Locomotive
Engineer in the Cab of a Locomotive. Dayton will back protection for
Locomotive Engineer which will protect pay for Railroad retirement.
- Pawlenty would not sign any contracts with the word
“Preserve” in a sentence.
- There will be a $1/Month raise in the dues for
Legislative dues, this is for education.
- BLET is 147 years old this year, the oldest Union for
rail transportation.
- If the Republicans take over we will have no leverage
for union contracts.
- Oberstars committees have passed more Legislation than
any other
committees on Capital Hill.
October 19th
Regular Meeting Minutes
(Password Protected)
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September 21st 2010
regular MEETING |
Members in Attendance
Dave Johnstone (Local Chairman)
Ray Koonce (Vice-President)
Thomas Wolff (Secretary / Treasurer)
Jeff Duresky (Vice-Local Chairman)
Paul Winfield (Webmaster)
Paul Sutherland
Some topics Discussed:
- Brother Johnstone commented that it is EXTREMLY
important for members who get in trouble, NOT to call a company officer
before talking to a local chairman or other union officer who could help
with questions, the member may have. Don’t offer any extra
information to a company officer unless they ask you specifically. Try
to have a witness on what is said, when being asked questions. Keep
notes if possible in the Interrogation, If told to put the notes away,
make a note of this also and who made you put the notepad away, time,
date, etc.
- Watch your layoffs on the Extra boards followed by marking up on Temp.
vacancies. CMS is taking 2 layoffs and then marking up on a temp. as 3
consecutive layoffs and then taking all guarantee for the half.
- Brother Johnstone is going to Reno, Nevada on September 28th, 2010 for
10days of meetings with the General and National Committee of
Adjustments. Good Luck Brother Johnstone.
September
21st Regular Meeting Minutes
(Password Protected)
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August 17TH 2010
regular MEETING |
Members in Attendance
Dave Johnstone (Local Chairman)
Ray Koonce (Vice-President)
Jason Carnes (Vice-Local Chairman)
Mark Anderson - (Legislative Rep.)
Mike Mercier (GC of A S/T)
Paul Sutherland
Some topics Discussed:
- Brother Mercier is working on a program to audit local dues and
expenses against payroll deposits.
- Brother Johnstone passed around the latest report of the General
Chairman and the resolutions for consideration by the BLET Committee of
Adjustment. Two of the three resolutions will be presented by Brother
Johnstone at the National Convention.
- Brother Anderson reported that he has been writing letters to the
Superintendent about the overgrown brush along the spine line, including
the poor site lines on the gravel pit crossing at about mile post 337.7.
He reminded us to whistle for the crossing at black dog coal plant, as
the flashing X’s have been installed by the industry and are not FRA
approved. Also the 2012 International Western Convention will be held in
St. Paul.
- The carrier has increased testing in an attempt to force the Total
Safety Culture.
August 17th
Regular Meeting Minutes
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July 20TH 2010
regular MEETING |
Members in Attendance
Dave Johnstone (Local Chairman)
Ray Koonce (Vice-President)
Jason Carnes (Vice-Local Chairman)
Chris Dysart (Guide)
Mike Mercier (GC of A S/T)
Paul Winfield (Webmaster)
Denny Denison
Josh Johnson
Terry Johnson
Paul Sutherland
Some topics Discussed:
-Brother Johnstone reports shortage of manpower has been addressed to a
point for the time being.
-The problem with CMS answering phone calls seems to be fixed.
-Discussed Fuel Conservation Program.
-Discussed the problem with pool engineers on the Valley Park board
being put in OA status for LTU22, then deadheaded to Mankato and paid
for time consumed instead of the trip rate.
- Discussed the harassment of M.O.P Hatfield. Apparently Hatfield is
threatening crews with insubordination for refusing to put what he wants
on 705 forms.
- Brother Johnstone presented the DIVISIO6 333 MOBILAIZATIO6 PLAN.
July 20th Regular Meeting Minutes
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June 15TH 2010
regular MEETING |
Members in Attendance
David Johnstone - (Local Chairman)
Mark Anderson - (Legislative Rep.)
Paul Schultz
Paul Sutherland
Some topics Discussed:
- Local Chairman Johnstone Reported
That he has heard back from the General Chairman concerning the question
of who should be forced to vacant jobs at Mankato under the new
agreements. The question was, when a job at an outlying point is put on
or becomes vacant and there are no setback engineers working as
conductor at that location, will a person be setup and forced from the
closest source of supply or from the closest source of supply having
jurisdiction over that job?
His answer is that the person is to be forced from the closest source
having
jurisdiction.
Also asked was who covers the extra yard jobs at Mankato?
Answer is the Twin Cities, the Valley Park extra board first, St. Paul
extra board
second.
- Legislative Rep. Anderson Reported
These parts of the cab bill go into effect in July 2010.
Drivers must have Valid Drivers license, Submit to Physical examination,
and know, understand relevant rules of road, laws and safety policies,
handling Emergency situations, proper use of seatbelts. Drivers must
perform pre-trip and post trip vehicle inspections, and inspection
record keeping. Keep proper maintenance records. The Carrier must
perform background check or background investigation of Operators,
annually verify the Operators drivers’ license. Document meeting the
requirements in this subdivision, and maintain the file at the carriers’
office.
- Nominations were held for the position of Delegate,
1st Alternate Delegate and 2nd
Alternate Delegate to the National Convention.
Delegate – Brother Johnstone Nominated by Brother Anderson 2nd Brother
Schultz
1st Alt – Brother Anderson Nominated by Brother Johnstone 2nd Brother
Schultz
2nd Alt – Brother Schultz Nominated by Brother Anderson 2nd Brother
Johnstone
Delegate – Brother Johnstone – winner by acclamation
1st Alt – Brother Anderson – winner by acclamation
2nd Alt – Brother Schultz – winner by acclamation
June 15th Regular Meeting Minutes
(Password Protected)
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May 18TH 2010
regular MEETING |
Members in Attendance
Ryan Behne - (President)
Thomas Wolff - (Secretary / Treasurer)
Mark Anderson - (Legislative Rep.)
Travis Gilomen - (Alternate Legislative Rep.)
Mike Mercier (GC of A S/T)
Paul Sutherland
Mark Billstrom
Special Guest Leo Puddy (Huengs, LeNeave, and Kvas Law firm)
Some topics Discussed:
- Leo suggested calling there firm for any questions,
they give free advice.
If it is decided that a member needs their representation, the cost is 25%
of the settlement plus expenses.
- Motion made to invite Gen. Chairman MacArthur and Vice
Chairman Elsberry to next meeting Regular meeting (June 15th, 2010) or
whenever they are available. Local 333 would extend invitation to
Officers from Divisions 369, 861, 241, 176, 9. Brother Mercier will call
and set up the meeting.
- It was decided that the YAEGER, JUNGBAUER & BARCZAK
law firm come off the Webpage. They are no longer, DLC (Designated Legal
Counsel) in the state of Minnesota.
- Cab Bill was passed. Drivers must have valid drivers
license, submit to physical examination, and know, understand relevant
rules of road, laws and safety policies, handling Emergency situations,
proper use of seatbelts. Drivers must perform pre trip and post trip
vehicle inspections, and inspection record keeping. Keep proper
maintenance records. The Carrier must perform background check or
background investigation of Operators, annually verify the Operators
drivers’ license. Document meeting the requirements in this subdivision,
and maintain the file at the carriers’ office. Carrier must maintain
insurance in the minimum amount of $5 million regardless of the seating
capacity of the vehicle. Carrier must maintain a minimum amount of $1
million for uninsured and underinsured coverage. Hours of Service start
for the Driver when they are called to pick-up crew, 10hr maximum, 15hrs
of combined on duty and drive time, 70hrs max. in an 8 day period, then
after 24hrs off the 70hr max starts over
- Rule on Union voting has been changed that, a non
returned ballot will no longer count as a “NO” vote; only Ballots
returned will be counted.
- National Bargaining has started negotiation a new
contract, National will handle Health and welfare, GC of A will handle
the working conditions and rates of pay on Northern region property.
Brother Mercier says, "GC of A may be raising dues from
$3/month to possibly $5-$7/month".
May
18th Regular Meeting Minutes
(Password Protected)
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April 20TH 2010
regular MEETING |
Members in Attendance
David Johnstone - (Local Chairman)
Raymond Koonce - (Vice - President)
Jason Carnes - (Vice Local Chairman)
Thomas Wolff - (Secretary / Treasurer)
Paul Winfield - (Webmaster)
Michael Mercier - (S/T GC of A)
Paul Sutherland
Mark Anderson - Legislative Rep.
Some topics Discussed:
- Familiarization Board was voted on and PASSED 16-1
(these are guaranteed
boards), Standing Bids PASSED 12-5, Floating vacations ratified.
- If there is a Conductor working in Mankato and an
Engineers position is vacant, the position will be filled by the oldest
set-back Engineer in Mankato. If there is no one in Mankato, the
position will be filled by the oldest set-back Engineer in Valley Park.
(if the job(s) is covered by Local 333 jurisdiction).
- Local Chairman Johnstone attended a workshop in
Champagne Ill.
- Local needs to post that elections for a Delegate and
2 alternate delegates to the National Division will be taking place at
the June 15th, 2010 meeting and elections will take place on the July
20th, 2010 meeting.
- Union Pacific Officers have been looking at the locals
website in the General forum—Be careful of what you say on the General
Forum, if it is questionable post it on the Members Only section.
April 20th Regular Meeting
(Password Protected)
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March 16th 2010
regular MEETING |
Members in Attendance
David Johnstone - (Local Chairman)
Raymond Koonce - (Vice - President )
Mark Anderson - (Legislative Rep.)
Michael Mercier - (S/T GC of A)
Mark Billstrom
Brad Radar-Bourgoin
Aaron Hagen
Donnie Hienze
Paul Sutherland.
- Talked about new agreements on Familiarization Board,
Bid request and single days vacation days.
- Brother Mercier mentions about joining our Brothers
from UTU Local 650 and have a combined
Christmas party. Brother Knooce assigned Brother Mercier to talk to
Brother Corchren about
cost and report on findings at next meeting.
- Brother Mercier also asks that the Division look into
the Local Chairmen being given a monthly
salary that can be reviewed every three month for fairness to the Local
Chairmen. Brother Mercier asked
that the Executive Committee along with the Secretary treasurer look in
the average cost occurred by
the Local Chairmen for the past 12 months. The salary is mentioned so
the Division could better budget
the dues money but in no way meant to short the local chairmen his lost
wages. The local Chairmen
must agree with the said amount before it is put into effect.
- Brother Mercier asked for an amendment to the
Division’s Orders for Doing Business.
1) All changes in local agreements will be sent to the membership my
mail for a vote.
2) All matters concerning officers pay be sent to the membership for a
mail vote.
March 16th Regular
Meeting
(Password Protected)
Corrections to March
Meeting Minutes in April
April 20th Regular Meeting
(Password Protected)
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February 16TH 2010
regular MEETING |
Members in Attendance
Ryan Behne - (President)
Jason Carnes - (Vice Local Chairman)
Travis Gilomen - (Alternate Legislative Rep.)
Paul Sutherland
Some topics Discussed:
- Brother Lee Hartson was voted into the Division’s
333 membership.
- Local Chairman Johnstone will attend a L/C conference
in Illinois March 21-26.
February 16th 2010 Meeting
(Password Protected)
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January 19th 2010 regular Meeting |
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Members in Attendance Dave Johnstone -
(Local Chairman)
Ray Koonce - (Vice President)
Chris Dysart - (Guide)
Peder Bruvold
Terry Johnson
Some topics Discussed:
- All of the newly elected officers were duly
installed per the Local Division Rules.
- Mankato jobs were discussed at length. The
divisions position is that all EXTRA Mankato jobs are to be
manned by Twin Cities engineers whether they
are called an 85X or an 81X, extra jobs belong to us.
January 19th 2010 Meeting
(Password Protected) |
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LEGAL DISCLAIMER:
This is only a informational website only. Information and
statements contained on this web site has been provided for the benefit of
BLET Division 333 Members. The Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen, Division 333 and this
webmaster are not liable for discrepancies, omissions, opinions, whether, expressed, implied, false or misleading content. All content ©
2008 Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen Division
333.
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