The International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers (BAC) has expanded Local 1 Oregon to include Eastern Washington and the states of Idaho and Montana. More than 400 workers in those states were members of the former Local 3.
Local 1 assumed all administrative responsibilities Oct. 1.
At the same time, the international union announced that it will dissolve the Pacific Northwest Administrative District Council, effective Jan. 1, 2020.
The new Local 1 Oregon/ Washington/Idaho/Montana will represent more than 1,300 craftworkers in the trowel trades, including bricklayers, stone and marble masons, tilesetters, terrazzo workers, pointers/cleaners/caulkers, refractory specialists, and finishers.
The union’s headquarters will remain at its current location at 12812 NE Marx St. Portland. A union hall in Eastern Washington will be located at 3923 E. Main St., Spokane, Washington.
The expansion is expected to bring increased union presence and resources to these regions, and the transition should be smooth, as all of the BAC members in these areas participate in funds administered by the Masonry Industry Trust Administration, said Business Manager Matt Eleazer.
“On a day-to-day level, things aren’t going to change overnight. Collective bargaining agreements are the same as they were before, and fringe benefit forms will remain the same,” Eleazer said.
In addition to his role as business manager, Eleazer will continue as president of Local 1. Oregon field rep Mike Titus will serve as secretary-treasurer. Apprenticeship Coordinator Shawn Lenczowski, Idaho/ Montana field rep Justin McEwen, and Eastern Washington/Idaho field rep Dustin Bradford will serve as vice chairs. Matteo Russo will continue as an organizer and field representative for all areas.
“I am excited to see what the Northwest can do together as one,” Eleazer said. “We will be stronger together. That is a promise.”
