Public sector workers in Upper Township, NJ, have chosen UFCW Local 152 to be their voice on the job!

A New Beginning

A few months ago, the clerical workers at the Township of Upper, New Jersey, reached out to UFCW Local 152 organizers to understand how Local 152 can help make changes at their workplace and have representation in order to best serve the town. Many of the new members have decades of experience and want to ensure they can continue to proudly serve the town regardless of changing political administrations.

“We’re excited to welcome these new members to our union and we look forward to working hard on their behalf,” Local 152 President Brian String said.

In New Jersey, the process of unionizing public workers is simpler than unionizing a private company. Public sector workers like the clerical staff at Township of Upper need a majority of workers to sign authorization cards, which show Public Employment Relations Commission (PERC), the state government body that oversees unions, that there is sufficient interest among employees. After they acquire a majority of cards a “card check” is conducted.

“The card check process is a fair and efficient way for workers to gain union representation if they choose,” President String said. “It removes the extended period before a secret ballot election when employers often use intimidation and scare tactics to prevent a union. Card check accomplishes in weeks what sometimes takes months or even years.”

Negotiations will begin in the near future on the first contract for these members, focusing on improving working conditions and protecting and enhancing wages and benefits.

Congratulations to these nine workers. We look forward to welcoming you to UFCW Local 152! Finally, congratulations to Director of Organizing Mike Thompson and Union Representative Pete White for helping these members walk through the process of organizing.

Why not you?

Are you interested in learning more about how UFCW Local 152 can help you and your coworkers? Fill out the Union Interest Form or email mthompson@ufcwlocal152.org today.