Our union is strongest when every member has the opportunity to participate, understand the issues, and have a meaningful say in the decisions that affect us.
Read NEW voting proposal
A member working a different shift, assigned elsewhere, or unable to attend a meeting should not automatically lose the opportunity to vote on union business. I want to pursue a secure, confidential electronic voting system that makes participation practical for the entire membership.
My proposal would preserve in-person deliberation for making and seconding motions, while allowing eligible members to cast a confidential electronic ballot after the meeting.
It would include voter verification, a defined voting window, clear supporting information, and procedures that respect our bylaws and applicable law.
The goal is simple: informed decisions with participation that is not limited by shift, assignment, or location.
Work toward secure, confidential electronic voting so every eligible dues-paying member can participate regardless of shift, assignment, or ability to attend a meeting. Motions and seconds would still occur at meetings, with time to review issues before a vote, subject to applicable rules.
Advocate for agendas and supporting materials to be available at least 72 hours before meetings. Substantive late additions should be communicated to members, with reasonable exceptions for urgent matters. Motions and seconds remain part of the meeting process.
When a question raised at a meeting requires follow-up, I will work to share the question and the answer with the full membership, not just the person who asked, while protecting private and confidential matters.
Represent IFD members across all ranks, shifts, and assignments. No member should feel that their concerns are overlooked because of where or when they work.
Pursue transparent, understandable rules for motions, seconds, supporting information, voting, and handling legal or bylaw concerns before decisions move forward.
Develop a realistic plan for improving sleeping arrangements in older firehouses, including separating bunk areas by unit where feasible. Members should not be unnecessarily awakened for runs they are not dispatched on. Better rest supports safety, health, and the energy we bring home to our families. Family matters.
Keep members informed about decisions, unresolved questions, and the reasons behind important union actions. Communication should be consistent and accessible, not limited to those able to attend a meeting.
Advocate for clear notice of departmental policy changes. Show deleted language with strikethrough and highlight new language in red so members can see exactly what changed, understand expectations, and receive adequate notice before changes take effect.
Work with members to identify priorities before the next contract negotiations, including fair compensation and recognition of additional duties and responsibilities. Members should have a meaningful voice in setting negotiating priorities.
Union leadership should never be about personal agendas or recognition. Every decision should begin with one question: How does this benefit our membership?
This framework is intended for membership discussion and review against IAFF rules, Local 416 bylaws, and applicable labor law before implementation.
A member makes a motion and another eligible member seconds it in person, consistent with governing rules.
Leadership prepares the ballot within seven calendar days. The member proposing the motion has an opportunity to explain it, and relevant information is made available.
Eligible members receive access to a secure, confidential electronic ballot with identity verification and a defined 72-hour voting window.
Rather than quietly discarding a vote, members should be informed of the concern when the vote would otherwise have occurred. The matter should return as old business at the next meeting for discussion, with a clearly defined membership process to withdraw, reject, or otherwise resolve the original motion.
Any final procedure must be reviewed for compliance with governing documents and applicable law before adoption.
My work in the fire service, training, and ceremonial leadership has reinforced the importance of communication, preparation, and standing up for the people beside you. I want to bring that same approach to representing IFD members within Local 416.
Photographs provided by the campaign. Personnel depicted in images do not indicate an endorsement.
I believe better access, clearer communication, and meaningful accountability can build a stronger union for everyone.
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