On Saturday Dec. 4, about 130 members of Operating Engineers Local 701 turned out for their first official semiannual union meeting since the pandemic hit with full force March 2020. And they stayed for over three hours. That included two hours during which they heard 17 months worth of meeting minutes.
The meeting was held outdoors for COVID-safety under a 40’x80’ tent. Many also brought toys to contribute to needy kids through the labor-sponsored Presents from Partners drive, including one apprentice who brought in an entire pickup bed full of toys, and asked to remain anonymous.
Local 701 honored three members at the meeting with pins for 70 years of continuous membership.
Headquartered in Gladstone, Local 701 brings together 3,600 crane and heavy equipment operators and stationary engineers.
