In an effort to better communicate information as quickly as possible to the Local 60 Membership, here is the ” HOT TOPICS” for this week.
A) On Monday of this week I was in Atlantic City Terminal to speak with our Members affected by the service suspension. I also spoke with Senator Chris Brown and a group of NJ Assembly Members about the rail suspension and the reasons why it must happened. I explained to all who were present that I am pushing for a more robust train schedule when the train service resumes. I facilitated and am a part of a meeting with NJ Transit and the AC Convention Center entity for next week, ahead of the line suspension, to discuss their needs for better schedules for their employees and events. We will also have a group from the AC Casino industry involved to provide their work shift information.
B) On Wednesday of this week I had the pleasure of welcoming a new class of students that are taking our Conductor Training Program. This is the second class of the year, 18-02 and has 25 students. I enjoyed speaking with the new class and answering their questions about our craft and our job responsibilities. I wanted to impress on them that we are a family here at Local 60 and welcome them.
C) Yesterday I was in Bay Head yard speaking with both morning and afternoon crews about ACRL and other current events. I did have a good opportunity to explain legislation coming out in the future on RESIDENCY LAW, CREW ASSAULT BILL and a MINIUMUM CREW SIZE. I have been extremely active along with Ron Sabol NJSLD in improving protections for our Members through communication and education of our politicians.
D) While in Bay Head yard Ron Sabol and I gave an afternoon tour of the facility and yard to NJ Assemblyman Eric Houghtaling from Monmouth County. We explained the importance of the yard, the effects of Superstorm Sandy and the need for improvements for our passengers in reliable equipment. Houghtaling appreciates the importance of the train service and agreed that we should always look to improve the service.
Please email me feedback or suggestions, I am here for you the Members. sburkert@utulocal60.com
Fraternally,
Stephen J. Burkert
General Chairman
