Message from the President 2026
As we move into the new year, there are several important developments on the
horizon. The District is in the process of finalizing the selection of a new CHRO, with a
decision expected by early May 2026. Several qualified candidates were interviewed by
District teams over the last few weeks. Keep a look out for an announcement from the
Administrative team.
Recently, the membership of the EA and the EAP voted to merge the two locals. This
will give us a bigger voice and stronger base for contract negotiations. The Board is in
the process of finalizing this merge with AFSCME. More news will be shared as we
move along in this process. Our current contract MOU with the District was finalized and
ratified by the membership at the end of December 2025. The Board was able to
present an in-depth power point regarding the new contract on two separate occasions
and voting was electronic for the first time with a window of two weeks. This allowed
members more time to evaluate the contract and make educated decisions. In addition,
the contract was provided in Spanish as well as English. This contract will remain in
effect until June 30, 2027.
Negotiations for a new agreement will begin in early fall of 2026. The new CHRO will
participate in the negotiations, allowing us to work directly with the leadership that will
ultimately finalize the contract.
Thank you to everyone who participated in the SurveyMonkey questionnaire regarding
member priorities prior to the negotiations for this contract. The results gave the team
more insight into what members find important and allowed us to work toward your
goals in negotiations. Your input is essential and directly shapes our approach at the
bargaining table.
At the Council 57 level, the budget and audits for the previous fiscal year are being
finalized. A proposed dues increase was presented but has been declined by the locals
at this time. As your AFSCME delegate, I remain committed to opposing any dues
increase, and the Board will continue to advocate strongly against raising member dues.
In 2025, the Board was able to cap the amount of dues deducted from members
paychecks while also ensuring that the percentage of dues required by AFSCME is only
taken from base wages. This eliminated dues deductions from standby pay, overtime
pay and any bonuses. We are continuing to actively explore options to further reduce
dues and help reduce the financial burden on our members, recognizing the importance
of economic stability during this time.
Participation in membership meetings remains an area for improvement. We encourage
all members to attend—either in person or via Zoom. Your voice matters, and broader
participation strengthens our collective representation. We are currently seeking

members interested in serving as stewards within their departments. This role includes
training in the MOU, interpretation and application, and provides an opportunity to serve
as a key resource for coworkers. It is a meaningful way to get involved and support your
colleagues.
Additionally, we are encouraging members to thoroughly read the MOU in preparations
for the upcoming negotiations. If you have a particular interest in specific aspects of the
MOU, we strongly encourage you to participate.
Summer passes are coming soon and should be available by the end of May. Eligibility
requires at least three consecutive months of active, dues-paying status. Reservations
must be made through the Sign-up Genius app, with the link available on the website
under “Passes.” For questions, please contact Jen Brixey in Respiratory Therapy of
Julie Morgan in ED.
To ensure you receive all union communications, please verify that we have your most
up-to-date email address. An update link is available on the website in the top right-
hand corner. The website can be found at tfhemployees.org
The Board remains committed to supporting our membership and maintaining a work
environment centered on safe, compassionate patient care, while also promoting a
healthy work-life balance. We welcome your ideas, feedback, and involvement as we
move forward together. Please feel free to reach out at any time by phone, email, or in
person.
Julie Morgan President TFH Local 3254 AFSCME Council 57