Local 631, the largest Teamsters union in Nevada, received a letter from Teamster President James Hoffa which read in part, “Based upon credible information regarding the administration of Local Union 631, I have determined that it is necessary for me to invoke my authority … and to appoint a panel to consider whether a trusteeship should be imposed upon the local union.” Local board members are accusing each other of political retaliation and misuse of credit cards, and many members have complained that their employment had been threatened for refusing to pledge their support to the board’s leader in future elections. A trusteeship hearing is schedule for December 13 and 14. Among the issues cited: • Members said grievance complaints had been denied or ignored based on their political affiliations. • The union allowed companies to use nonunion workers when union members were available to work. • Members who cooperated with the ongoing investigation were punished. • Shop stewards loyal to Secretary/Treasurer John Phillipenas were given union vehicles and credit cards for personal use. The Local was placed under supervision for similar problems in 2000, and apparently is still operating in the good, ole’ fashion union way.
