My letter is directed to the City of Vicksburg employees who are considering forming a labor union.

BEWARE!

Unions are designed to cost you part of your paycheck and make money for their own purposes. Investigate what the union bosses are paid and what they will do for you because it’s expensive. Your well-being is not their concern, your money is.

They will spend time, money, and, if necessary, muscle to assure you believe in them. In their day, unions were a vital part of working America, but not anymore. Several years ago, I attempted to dissolve the AFGE at the Engineer Research and Development Center. The union sent some of their “strong arm” enforcers to fight my efforts. They spent money providing lunch to those who would listen to their empty promises.

I attended every lunch and after the second day of disputing their claims, was asked not to attend, a warning I ignored.

We finally agreed to a vote, however, the union wanted the ballots mailed instead of holding a local vote and prevented the mailing of votes for about three months, needless to say, apathy and time took its toll.

There were approximately 200 of 900 votes returned and most of them were from paying union members. At ERDC, if you are not a salaried employee you are represented by the union whether or not you want representation. The union officers spend the majority of their time in meetings rather than doing their job.

I think you should save your money, do your job to the best of your ability, and trust me, the City of Vicksburg will take care of you.

Karen Wood

Vicksburg