Town Hall Meetings continue as counting of ballots begins on December 4

The Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers is continuing to host a series of Town Hall Meetings regarding the proposed merger with the International Brotherhood Teamsters as ballots were mailed on October 20.

The timeline established in Section 1(e) of the current BLE Constitution & Bylaws governs the balloting process.

In accordance with Section 1(e)(6)--Constitution, the required merger documents and ballots were mailed to over 37,000 members in the United States and Canada on October 20, 2003. Due to the large volume and weight of the documents, it was necessary to hand stuff each envelope, so be sure to examine your packet carefully. If the ballot or any other documents are missing, call the American Arbitration Association (AAA) at (800) 529-5218. The voting period does not end until December 4, 2003, so there is ample time to request a replacement ballot if necessary.

Any new members who were recently initiated, processed and are reported on the International Division records as of October 20 are eligible to vote on the merger and will also be sent ballots.

"Every member is strongly encouraged to review the documents and vote on this most important proposal, so we can send the entire industry a strong message of unity," said BLE International President Don Hahs. "The merger agreement and related bylaws establish a structure that preserves BLE autonomy and creates an opportunity for growth under the umbrella of the Teamsters."

The proposed merger would give locomotive engineers and trainmen membership in the largest transportation union in North America.

The Town Hall Meetings provide a chance for BLE members to participate in a question and answer session with BLE leaders regarding the proposed IBT merger. Upcoming Town Hall Meetings for November are published in the "Calendar and Events section of this Newsletter.

On February 26, 2003, the BLE Advisory Board unanimously approved a motion that allowed the BLE Executive Committee to explore a possible merger with the Teamsters.

© 2003 Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers