Local Union No. 51
International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers
301 E. Spruce Street, Springfield, IL 62703
217/544-8481 Fax 217/544-8490 Web Site: www.ibew51.org

Local Union No. 51
International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers
301 E. Spruce Street, Springfield, IL 62703
217/544-8481 Fax 217/544-8490

May 13, 2009

VERIZON / FRONTIER COMMUNICATIONS
UPDATE

IBEW LOCAL 51 was notified early this morning of Verizon’s decision to divest wireline properties in 14 states. Along with 13 other states, Illinois has been “sold” to Frontier Communications. Currently, Local 51 holds one labor agreement covering telephone workers at Frontier. The current collective bargaining agreement with Verizon, shall remain in effect until March 10th, 2012.

While this news may cause uncertainty for some people, the leadership here at IBEW Local 51; Jim Bates, Business Manager and myself as Business Representative have a long history of dealing with telephone companies. We will be monitoring this transition and will take the necessary steps to ensure that the collective rights of our members are protected.

Fraternally,

Rod Brandt
Business Representative

RB / nc
cc: Jim Bates