FAQs about the new Local 721
On Jan. 2, we entered the next phase of SEIU’s Unite to Win plan to reorganize most of the public sector locals in California: Our new local SEIU Local 721 received its charter, paving the way for seven local unions (347, 535, 620, 660, 700, 998 and 1997) to unite to form a larger, more powerful local union covering 85,000 local government workers throughout Southern California. Here are answers to some frequently-asked questions about the transition to Local 721.
How will this change affect my rights under my union contract?
The new regional local will allow us to pool our resources and speak with one powerful voice to win significant gains for our members and the community. It does not affect your current bargaining unit status or your rights under your union contract. The ongoing representation, organizing, bargaining, and political work of the union will continue, and all SEIU contracts will remain in place. Members will not lose any benefits, pay, or other protections. Our lawyers will make sure that all contracts are safely transferred to the new local.
What is the timeline for the official transition to Local 721?
The transition to Local 721 will be completed by mid-March 2007.
What is the governing structure of the new local?
Until members can adopt a permanent constitution and bylaws, a temporary constitution and bylaws will provide a governing structure for SEIU Local 721. SEIU President Andy Stern has named Annelle Grajeda, Local 660’s general manager, as interim president of Local 721, and appointed an interim executive board to guide the transition process and ensure the continuity of representation.
What will happen to board members and stewards?
All of the locals that are uniting have representatives on the interim board of Local 721. Many former board members will serve in interim positions until final bylaws are adopted and new officers and board members are elected. All officers, board members and stewards, as well as all interested members, are encouraged to participate in the process of developing recommendations for the long-term structure and operations of the new local. Additionally, Local 721 will continue to have stewards represent members in the workplace.
What will happen to union staff?
It is the goal of the interim leadership of Local 721 to retain all available, competent, and committed staff. The best way to assign and deploy those staff members throughout the seven-county region is currently being determined.
Where will my local union office be?
Our offices in Los Angeles and Orange County will remain open. The location of offices in Ventura, Santa Barbara, Riverside, San Bernardino and San Luis Obispo counties is currently being determined.
Will my dues change as a result of this transition?
Dues will not change unless the member committees, with representatives from each local, make recommendations about a new dues structure and a democratic process for implementing it.
How was the name 721 chosen?
There was a lot of discussion about the name for our new regional local. It was agreed that the tentative name will be 721. “Seven” signifies the seven locals. “Two” means “to” and “1” means the one that the local will become. In addition, the last two digits, “21,” represent the 21st century. The tentative name will be presented to the International for approval at a later date.
How was the plan to create Local 721 developed?
The plan to reorganize most of the public sector locals in California is the result of nine hearings held between February and April 2006, with participation from SEIU members and leaders across the state. More than 14,000 pages of testimony were recorded and considered. In June, the hearing officers filed a set of recommendations to unite members and resources to build new strength. Their recommendations were adopted by our elected member leaders on the International Executive Board. Last fall, the plan received 88% support from the SEIU California membership in a statewide vote.