December 2021 Update
Peak season is concluding, and we’re starting to look forward to 2022. To be sure, 2021 has been a tumultuous year. From the continuing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic to the large number of career conversions, and from work floor changes to the day-to-day challenges of contract administration, the Representatives of Local 323 have worked hard to address the concerns of the Membership. As with the change from any year to the next, our Representatives will continue to pursue all unresolved issues through the grievance procedure.
2022 will continue to present the Union with many challenges. Among them will be the negotiation of what will become known as the 2022 National Agreement. Both the National Union and Local Union have put out the call for the Membership to submit their proposals for changes to the National Agreement. Unfortunately, no one is exactly beating down the door in this regard. Yet, there are many well-known issues, several involving wages, for which everyone would agree that changes are desirable. The Local Union Council will be meeting in January to identify issues and finalize proposals to address these issues. The voice of the Local 323 Membership will heard in the run up to National bargaining.
It remains to be seen how long the COVID-19 will continue to impact our workplace or what operational directions the Postal Service will take in 2022. I have previously stated that I look forward to the day when I can stop typing the acronym COVID; but the continuing renewal of the COVID related Memoranda of Understanding seem to suggest that day is not getting nearer. If a common theme will exist between 2021 and 2022, it will be no shortage of work for the Representatives of Local 323.
On behalf of myself, the Local Executive Board, and the Local Union Council, Happy New Year to the Members of Local 323 and their families.
JL