Gas Distrubution Report

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Gas Distribution

 

The year of 2009 can best be summed up as a difficult and hard year in the Distribution Industry. Man-hours are down and the out-of-work list has grown. As an industry, we are dependent on the housing market and look forward to that segment of the industry picking up in the next year or two.

 

November 15^th, we began the 4^th and last year of this current agreement. Our wage increase, effective November 15^th, $2.33 was put on the check.  I encourage you to attend the December Union Meeting Thursday, December 10^th, and the Christmas Party as it will be announced by the Trustees if any monies will be increased to the Health & Welfare Plan or pensions.  Once announced, I will send out notification of a meeting later in December

 

National Pension,

At the November Union Meeting, it was reported that the National pension is 72% funded and in the yellow zone under the classification system established by the Pension Protection Act. To summarize, we will need to increase our contribution amount by 15%, which equates to $0.37 per hour. Any changes in contribution will be made next year with an effective date of January 1^st, 2011. If you have any questions, please call.

 

Retirement

Roy McNeff, after 31 years in the Gas Industry, has decided to retire.  His career started at Washington Natural Gas in 1978 as a Helper and eventually a Gas Fitter. In 1988, he moved to the contractors where he worked almost full-time for Mid-Mountain, Loy-Clark and the last eight (8) years for Pilchuck.  He also wore the Steward’s button proudly while working for Mid-Mountain and Pilchuck. Roy’s work ethic and leadership was an excellent role model for all members to follow. He is already missed.  He and his wife, Kathy, who he has been married to for the last 33 years, will retire in the area and enjoy their nine (9) grandchildren. 

Respectfully submitted,

Jeffery Owen

Local 32 Agent