SOLIDARITY ALERT: IFPTE's David LaFemina Joins Picketing Solvang City Workers

David LaFemina (center) and Solvang City workers

IFPTE International Representative David LaFemina joined Solvang, California public servants on the picket line last week. The workers, represented by Teamsters Local Union 986, have been on strike for four weeks. They voted to strike after the City Council approved a 20% raise for its members and a $30,000 salary increase for the mayor while initially offering workers only a 2% raise. The striking employees work in the city’s public works, marketing, tax, land-use administration, and inspection departments.

LaFemina said, “IFPTE represents tens of thousands of public-sector workers in several states, including California, so joining Solvang’s public servants on the picket line was an easy decision. After all, our solidarity makes us strong. I will continue monitoring the situation and stand ready to help these workers as needed.”

Read the Santa Maria Times article here. Thank you, Brother LaFemina!