Brian Fisher

Township Retail Services Teamsters Ratify 4 Year Contract with big wins on Salary and Pension

If you have ever been outlet shopping at the Gilroy outlet mall, did you ever wonder who keeps the mall’s public space clean? Yes, they are this group of Teamster Local 853 members.

This year, these members secured an incredibly strong 4-year deal. Jumping their salary substantially over the life of the contract and securing a doubling of the pension contributions from the Company.

Congratulations to this group of hard-working members who stuck together, remained unified, and achieved an impressive win.

Township Retail Services Teamsters Ratify 4 Year Contract with big wins on Salary and Pension Read More »

Teamsters Local 853 welcomes courageous group who initially formed their own independent union.

Oro Loma Sanitary District operates a regional wastewater collection and treatment system—moving sewage from homes and businesses through hundreds of miles of sewer lines to its treatment plant, where the wastewater is processed and tested so the water can be safely discharged in compliance with regulations that protect the San Francisco Bay.  

Seven members of this vital company decided to form a Union without the support of an already established union to bargain with the company from a position of strength.  It was a courageous and bold move.  After organizing and forming their Union group on their own, they ran into the complexities of negotiating a contract without the resources and experience of a seasoned union.  

Enter Teamsters Local 853

These workers contacted Teamsters Local 853 to convert their self-managed bargaining unit to a Teamsters Local 853 bargaining unit.  It was fairly straightforward; they signed intention cards and then arranged to vote to transfer representation to the Teamsters.  The vote was 100% unanimous.

Please join us in welcoming this group to Teamsters Local 853. Having members with such drive and initiative is a very welcome addition to our Teamster family.

Teamsters Local 853 welcomes courageous group who initially formed their own independent union. Read More »

Martin Luther King Jr.: Champion of Labor Unions and Equality for All

853 Sisters and Brothers,

On this MLK day, we would like to remind you of the ties between King’s efforts and the success of the Labor Movement in the 50s and 60s. We felt it important we understand the history of a man whose efforts built a foundation that we all now stand on.

Labor and Equal Rights

Martin Luther King Jr. was not only a leader in the civil rights movement but also a passionate advocate for labor unions and workers’ rights. He understood that economic justice was inseparable from racial equality and believed that unions were essential to building a fair and equitable society. King’s work demonstrated that the fight for civil rights was also a fight for the dignity and well-being of all workers, regardless of race or class.

King consistently supported labor unions, viewing them as a powerful force for social and economic change. He praised the labor movement for transforming oppressive conditions into progress and opportunity, declaring that unions were “the first anti-poverty program.” King stood in solidarity with workers, joining strikes and protests to demand fair wages, safe working conditions, and the right to unionize.

King’s Death

Tragically, King was killed in Memphis, there to support the 1968 Memphis sanitation workers’ strike, where he championed the cause of Black workers who marched under the rallying cry “I Am a Man.” Cementing his legacy as a tireless advocate for labor rights.

Equality in our modern time

While labor unions were central to King’s vision, his advocacy extended to broader struggles for equality. He believed that economic justice and racial justice were deeply intertwined and that no group could achieve true freedom without solidarity among all marginalized communities. King often emphasized that injustice in one area threatened justice everywhere, urging people of all backgrounds to unite in the pursuit of equality.

King’s legacy as a champion of labor unions and universal human dignity serves as a reminder that the fight for justice requires collective action. His unwavering commitment to economic and social equality continues to inspire movements for fairness and opportunity today.

Martin Luther King Jr.: Champion of Labor Unions and Equality for All Read More »

First contract ratified at 100% – The women of Latinas Contra Cancer do the kind of work that rarely makes headlines, yet changes entire lives.

The women of Latinas Contra Cancer do the kind of work that rarely makes headlines, yet changes entire lives: they walk alongside people facing cancer when the system feels cold, confusing, or impossible to access. They confront the real-world barriers that force families to choose between care and survival—language, lost wages, lack of insurance, immigration-related fear, and the daily weight of inequity—by making sure patients are seen, heard, and supported with culturally rooted care and unwavering dignity.

What makes their work extraordinary is how practical and personal it is at the same time. Their patient navigators, promotoras, advocates, and community health workers help schedule appointments and follow-ups, coordinate transportation, connect people to interpretation, and guide families to free or low-cost care and social services—while also building community through support groups and survivorship resources. They are not just helping someone “get through” cancer; they are helping families reclaim power in a healthcare system that too often overlooks them, and pushing toward a future where health is treated as a right.

Several members of this group had previous union experience and understood the benefits unions can bring. So the process was relatively quick. The group signed cards, voted YES, and has now ratified its first contract.

“Joining the Teamsters was an important step for Latinas Contra Cancer because our mission is rooted in advocacy for our patients, our community, and our team.” Said Jessica Diangson, Director of Operations & Finance. “Strengthening our workplace ensures our staff can thrive and feel supported in the work they do every day. Union representation for LCC provides stability and a collective voice, ensuring we can continue delivering compassionate, high‑quality support when it’s needed most.”

This is an example of what’s possible when a company prioritizes employee well-being.

“Latinas Contra Cancer (LCC) is a group of members unlike any in other Local 853’s membership. Guiding people through cancer is a critical and tough job. Local 853 will be there in the years to come for our members at LCC and to make sure the organization thrives. We are proud that the objective of a first contract has been achieved.” Said Teamster 853 Recording Secretary Mike Henneberry

These new members approved a three-year agreement that includes a pension and Teamsters health care. The vote was unanimous.

“I’m excited to welcome them to Teamsters Local 853,” said Teamsters Local 853 President Steven Lua at a recent meeting. “But even more importantly, I’m excited to support the work they do. Their mission is meaningful and valuable, and it inspires me personally to keep working hard for those who need it most. They are a very welcome group to our Teamster family.”

First contract ratified at 100% – The women of Latinas Contra Cancer do the kind of work that rarely makes headlines, yet changes entire lives. Read More »

60‑Day Extension extended for 17,000 drivers with Legal Address Outside of California – Non-Domicile CDL Suspensions Update

CA DMV update for non-domiciled / limited-term CDL(California Driver’s License) & CLP(California Learner’s Permit) holders

California DMV has stopped issuing non-domiciled CLPs/CDLs after a federal compliance finding. This means if your legal permanent residence is not in California, you are likely subject to this ruling.

On December 30th, 2025, the DMV extended 17,000 cancellations to the close of business on March 6, 2026

If you’re affected, DMV will send you a letter/email.

Your non-domiciled CDL(California Driver’s License) & CLP(California Learner’s Permit) application may be cancelled, and some non-domiciled CDLs may be cancelled (others may remain valid until expiration).

Do not ignore your letter.

DMV says if your CDL is cancelled, your regular (noncommercial) license may also be cancelled, meaning you can’t legally drive a personal car until you apply for a noncommercial license.

DMV’s stated next steps (fee waived with your letter):

  • If you do not have U.S. citizenship/permanent residency, apply for a noncommercial license by your letter deadline.
  • If you do have U.S. citizenship/permanent residency, apply for a compliant CDL by your letter deadline.

Contact the DMV phone: (916) 306-5153 . For office visits, make an appointment and complete an online application prior to your appointment.

More Information

For more information about the newly imposed federal requirements, visit fmcsa.dot.gov.

60‑Day Extension extended for 17,000 drivers with Legal Address Outside of California – Non-Domicile CDL Suspensions Update Read More »

Our celebration wish for the holidays as we look to achieve monumental things in 2026.– Steve Beck

2025 was an incredible year

Teamsters Local 853 Sisters and Brothers. Because of all your efforts, we are closing out 2025 stronger than ever. Over the past three years, my administration’s priorities have focused on unity and transparency. These priorities have reinvigorated us all and brought many more members into active service of our Union. Reinvigorated unity that drove more courageous and record-breaking contracts than at any time in our recent past.

So with these in-house priorities now in place, and our positive momentum surging, 2026 will be a time to turn outward and take the fight to the corporations and politicians who seek to take away our security. If we are going to maintain and build on our success, we must keep pushing.

Our pursuit of justice

We are living in a time of unprecedented wealth inequality in America. The widening canyon between workers and corporate elites is now politically turbocharged. At the same time, AI, robotics, and autonomous vehicles are enriching corporations as they seek every possible way to replace workers in the name of greed and profit.

So as long as I hold this position, to help us seek justice, I will be asking the same thing. Be active in your Union. Talk with your fellow members, stewards, and Business Agents. Take an interest. Speak up about what’s happening on the job. Share your experiences to improve your workplace. Be ready to step up and show up when Teamsters Local 853 needs to demonstrate our strength in public. Support politicians who support unions. This is how we become a real and intimidating force against corporate greed.

Happy holidays, and thank you

So with 2026 in mind, and 2025 in the rear view mirror, I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for stepping up for your Local. Congratulations on your significant achievements: every contract, every grievance won, every wrong that you have made right. The Executive Board and I, along with all the Business Agents, are here to support you in every way we can. As members of Teamsters Local 853, we’ve built lives with the pay, benefits, and protections that give our families breathing room and peace of mind. The Teamsters Local 853 badge is an honor—wear it proudly.

I also want to acknowledge the members we are working to lift up who still do not have the security of a contract. Especially my RNDC sisters and brothers, who, through no fault of their own, were hurt by market forces and a sudden corporate decision, and our 260 members at Westlake. The Westlake members are now in their sixth month on strike, holding firm for their fair share. Their fight is our fight, and they deserve our full support and respect.

On behalf of me, President Steven Lua, our Executive Board, and all of our Business Agents and staff: Happy Holidays—let’s crush it again in 2026. There is nothing we can’t do when we are unified and moving together.

In solidarity,
Steve Beck
Secretary-Treasurer and Principal Officer
Teamsters Local 853

Our celebration wish for the holidays as we look to achieve monumental things in 2026.– Steve Beck Read More »

Congressman Mike Thompson shows his support for striking Teamsters Local 853 members at Westlake as they walk the line for the sixth straight month

Teamsters Local 853 thanks Congressman Mike Thompson for his support in honoring the men and women of Westlake Royal Stone Solutions who work in his district.

Federal law requires Westlake to bargain in good faith. When the spirit or letter of that law is violated, Federal representatives like Congressman Thompson are there to stand with us.

“Our members at Westlake are very appreciative to have Congressman Thompson’s support.” Said Secretary-Treasurer Steve Beck. “They walk the line day and night for basic dignity. Having the support of the Congressman means they are one step closer to securing the fair pay, benefits, and job protections that all Californians are entitled to.”

See the letter of support below from the Congressman

Congressman Mike Thompson shows his support for striking Teamsters Local 853 members at Westlake as they walk the line for the sixth straight month Read More »

Federal Congressman Mike Thomson stands with Teamsters at Westlake, interviens to expedite resolution

The last time a Teamsters Local 853 strike was elevated to a political level, the company’s revenues were reduced by 50% in less than a year. We can only hope Westlake does not choose this self-inflicted path.

Less than three years ago, another Bay Area company decided to stand firm against striking Teamster 853 members; the results were devastating to the company. A reduction in revenue by 50% as political pressure ensued, government contracts were removed, messaging to local businesses ramped up, and overall goodwill for the company dissolved in the community. So when the company was faced with trying to survive another year at 50%, or give in to the strike, they made the obvious choice. Back pay was awarded, wrongful termination settlements were paid, ULP charges were compensated, and a fair contract was put in place to secure the workers’ future.

A complete waste of time and effort where the company lost big, just to fight an unwinnable battle. The mistake they made was thinking that the striking workers themselves were the only bullet in the gun. But in California, the strike is the bullet in the chamber, and there are 10 more in the clip.

Ultimately, companies only care about their bottom line. Make money for your shareholders by all legal means.

So now we move to the language of currency, as we stand on the simple principle of fairness for exploited Californian workers. California has real teeth as it takes care of its workers, and its politicians will fire the next bullet in the chamber.

Federal Congressman Mike Thomson stands with Teamsters at Westlake, interviens to expedite resolution Read More »

The richest, and first-ever, regional contract in the country; SYSCO Foods ratifies a four-year contract

Teamsters Local 853 members at SYSCO Foods in San Francisco were ground zero for the industry—the first food-service group in the Bay Area to unionize. Their stand set the tone for many others. Since that first SYSCO contract, UNFI, Tony’s Fine Foods, VISTAR, US Foods, and Performance Food Group have all come under contract with Teamsters Local 853.

So when these 853 members came up on its first contract since COVID, they were ready to set another record, a record befitting their place in union history in the Bay Area.

Their first step was commitment as a unified group. In September, they authorized a strike if needed.

Strike vote Approved: 853 Teamsters at SYSCO Foods were ground zero, and opened the door to every major food service company in the Bay Area, now they go to the mat again

A win-win regional contract approach

Before negotiations commenced, SYSCO in Reno and Sacramento were also coming up on the expiration of their contracts. And so Teamsters Local 853, 137, and 533 banded together, under the guidance of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, to pursue the first regional contract that would cover all three locals. This is a classic win-win for all involved. For the Teamsters, the greater our numbers, the more leverage and authority we have to seek improvements for our members. SYSCO also wins, having one group to bargain with, thereby reducing the potential disruptions of three complex union contracts working separately to secure three separate contracts.

The sticking points

There were many sticking points on the way. Job safety was a paramount issue identified during negotiations that almost derailed the contract. Also, a show of force to go to the mat was organized after their strike authorization vote.

On the job safety a major issue in SYSCO Negotiations – Strike Deadline Set
SYSCO Foods Teamsters in SF show their readiness to stand united for a better contract

Then, a first vote was held after Safety concerns were addressed and incorporated into the contract. 👎 But the first vote did not pass. 👎 There were still some wage issues that were not satisfactory. So the company asked to get back to the table to revisit wages.

Success

👍The second vote passed by a more than 2 to 1 margin. 👍 The result! The richest and first regional contract in the Country. All because this groundbreaking group pushed the company to its limits, was confident in their demands, and stayed unified to get it.

“I’m very proud of what SYSCO Teamsters accomplished with this contract,” said Teamsters Vice President and Business Agent Ray Torres. “I felt honored to stand shoulder to shoulder with these members during this groundbreaking contract.” “I hope these members fully recognize the unity, determination, and communication it took to put it together.”

“This is a great win for these members who have seen so much over their years of service,” said Steve Beck, Secretary-Treasurer of Teamsters Local 853. “To know that they have worked hard for what they wanted, fought hard, and achieved their goal is the Teamster way.”

The credit goes to the entire team

Shout out to the members of the negotiating committee who kept everyone unified. Thank you to those who give all that extra effort for their coworkers. Andy Gonzalez, Joe Silva, Reggie Knighten, Rod Melfati, and Marco Ornelas.

Finally, BIG shouts out to: Tom Erickson, IBT director of the Warehouse Division, who helped guide us through this multi-local contract, Russ Butler, principal officer of Teamsters Local 137 in Sacramento, and to Chris Fuqua, Vice president of Teamsters Local 533 in Reno, Nevada. It was an incredible team effort.

The richest, and first-ever, regional contract in the country; SYSCO Foods ratifies a four-year contract Read More »

Teamster 853 members at Certainteed ratify record breaking offer

Teamsters Local 853 members at Certainteed ratified a new three-year contract with significant gains to wages.

This group followed the recipe for success. They showed a willingness to go to the mat with an authorized strike vote, then stuck together, didn’t let the company divide them, and in the end, through their unity and commitment, got an exceptionally strong contract.

“Standing shoulder to shoulder, these members did Teamters 853 proud.” Said Teamster 853 Vice President and Business Agent Ray Torres. “These members did it right, and a big thank you to the negotiating committee. They are the ones who go above and beyond for their fellow members.”

Teamster 853 members at Certainteed ratify record breaking offer Read More »