President’s Message Delivered at MCA-KC’s 2011 Annual Membership Meeting

We faced a tough negotiation this year. Contractors and our union teammates both made concessions and, let’s face it, it was difficult at times.

But, we arrived at a fair contract with new tools that increase our competitiveness. Now, it’s time to start using those tools. That’s easier said than done in this economy. But, I can tell you that it won’t happen unless we build a strong relationship with union leadership.

To that end, I’m committed, as MCA-KC president, to meeting regularly with union leadership and finding the common ground we need to get more union projects, get more union jobs, and get more union members working.

I encourage you to support Pat Julo’s letter that emphsizes the importance to our industry to send in our prevailing wage forms and encourages our support of Journeyman Continuing Education and the proper forms to request and evaluate an apprentice. Click here if you have not seen the letter. I highly recommend you take his suggestions seriously. These forms are consistent with the needs of Plumbers Local 8 as well. They are absolutely essential to support our industry.

A true team means that each player and each position does his job. That’s what we need to do. Contractors and union leaders and members all have a position to play so that we can take  back work that’s been lost.

I have recently met with Local 533, where we continue to negotiate a new agreement to get back residential and light commercial work. I’m hopeful that we can all work together to create an agreement that will allow us to win against the other team – the non-union guys.

Finally, I strongly encourage you to contact the MCA-KC office for assistance in any matter related to our new contract or any other industry issue. Our capable staff is in place to help you, our contractors.

Sincerely,

Bill Adams
President, MCA-KC