Sisters and Brothers,

It has been two weeks since the Governor declared a “Stay at Home” order. Many things have happened since then. Many concerns resolved, and many more questions left unanswered. I assure every IBEW Local 477 member, that I am working around the clock to get answers to all our members questions.

Members are concerned or frankly scared during these uncertain times. I encourage all members to keep open communication with your employers and the Hall. We can raise the standard for safety during all of this by being a Steward of our industry. If you encounter a project not following the CDC’s guidelines, then please contact a Business Representative or myself immediately.

I have been in constant contact with our Health Administrative Office and Legal team. We are closely monitoring changes in eligibility and the wellbeing of our members and the fund. I have our trust consultant running every possible scenario to better prepare the Trust Fund if immediate actions are required.

The Defined Contribution Trust fund legal team and I has been diligently working with Zenith and Mass Mutual in regard to the CARES Act that was recently passed and how it affects our members in financial need. As soon as we have direction, I will be notifying the Membership.

I understand that while we are in these uncharted waters, we will all be frustrated and looking for immediate answers. I assure you; I am doing everything possible to ease some of those concerns while maintaining the wellbeing of the Local. We are going through extraordinary circumstances. I want to tell you that we are in this together as a family and most importantly as a Brotherhood.

Fraternally,
Jason Eshelman
Business Manager/Financial Secretary.

Sisters and Brothers,

A little over a week has past since the Governor declared a state wide “Stay at home” order. The Local has been working round the clock to ensure little to no disruption at the Hall for our members during these uncertain times while still maintaining the CDC’s guidelines. Every IBEW member has the ability to choose whether they continue to work or not depending on their own personal health or that of their family or other personal circumstances such as living with elderly or immune compromised relative. No member should be working who has a fever or cough or who otherwise displays symptoms of COVID-19 infection.

Sisters and Brothers,

The Hall’s operations will remain open and provide essential services for our members. Provisions have been put into place to ensure the safety of our Member’s and Staff.

DUE TO THE CURRENT CONCERNS OF THE COVID-19 VIRUS AND PER THE GOVERNMENT DIRECTIVES, THE INLAND EMPIRE ELECTRICAL TRAINING CENTER (IEETC) HAS SUSPENDED ALL ON-SITE INSTRUCTION FOR THE FORESEEABLE FUTURE. ALL CURRENT STUDENTS WILL RECEIVE AN EMAIL ON MARCH 20, 2020 WITH ADDITIONAL INFORMATION REGARDING THIS TRANSITION.