Richardson wins re-election unopposed at UNITE-HERE Local 9

Jeff Richardson was re-elected by acclamation to a third term as financial secretary-treasurer of Portland-based UNITE-HERE Local 9. The union represents approximately 1,000 hotel employees and restaurant employees in Oregon.

Also re-elected without opposition were Gloria Gonzalez, president; Sophie Welcer and John Pulido, executive board; and Gayle Carnini, trustee.

Jonah Kobayashi was elected vice president and David Brown was elected a trustee. Both are new to the positions.

All terms are for three-years.

Richardson reported that Local 9 is close to having union representation cards signed at the new Hilton Vancouver and Convention Center in Washington. “We should be there by the end of August or early September and start negotiating a first contract shortly after that,” Richardson said.

Local 9 secured a neutrality agreement before the taxpayer-financed convention center and hotel complex was built. The Hilton operates the hotel under a contract with the city.

The hotel and convention center employs approximately 120 workers.

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