March 12, 2007

Dear SEIU Local 1985 Member:

As you may have heard, Local 1985 has been placed in an emergency trusteeship by the International Union to protect Local 1985 members and ensure you have the best possible representation. The action was taken because of reliable reports that Local 1985 was experiencing a serious financial crisis and lack of adequate financial controls.  I have been appointed by the SEIU International President as the Trustee of Local 1985. 

What this means is that the officers and board members of Local 1985 have been suspended pending an internal union hearing. A specific date has not yet been set, but the hearing will be open to all Local 1985 members, and the hearing officer’s findings will be made available to Local 1985 members. As the Trustee, I will be running the affairs of the local on a day-to-day basis, along with Joe Buckley, who has been appointed deputy trustee.

Joe and I intend to work closely with Local 1985 members, stewards, and staff to ensure that among other things: 

• We continue to have the strongest union possible, in the workplace and at the bargaining table.
• We continue building greater member participation in the union and work together to fight for a better future for Local 1985 members and your families.
• We communicate openly and often with members and leaders to build unity behind our campaigns.
• We vigorously work to solve workplace problems and pursue grievances.
• We continue all of the Local 1985’s important political activities. 

In the near future, we will be establishing a member oversight committee to help guide the union during the trusteeship. I know this is a difficult time for all of you. But this action was necessary to protect the members of Local 1985 and safeguard the integrity of the union.

Sincerely Yours,
Neneki Lee,
Trustee
Local 1985

Enclosure:  Bios of Local 1985 Trustee and Deputy Trustee