Ha‘aheo 675

Business Manager's Message

Sam Barrett Jr.

Aloha Members,

We closed out 2025 in celebration of our members with our annual Holiday Parties and General Membership Meetings across the island chain. The Holiday Parties were held at the Hilton Hawaiian Village, Hilo Hawaiian Hotel, King Kamehameha Kona Beach Hotel, Sheraton Kauai Resort, and Andaz Maui Resort. This year we had one of the biggest turnouts across all islands. It was especially meaningful to celebrate the season alongside our members and their families.

As we wrapped up 2025, the Business Agents and I had the opportunity to attend several conferences that discussed the focus on the overall scope of work for labor unions. In September, we attended the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO) conference which focused on water preservation. They showcased how new features such as the water calculator can estimate water supply demand for buildings, increasing efficiency. We also attended the UA/MCAA Labor Relations Conference, which is a joint event by the United Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters (UA) and the Mechanical Contractors Association of America (MCAA). The conference focused on national issues surrounding the current need for manpower, organizing and workforce development. As manpower needs continue to grow, so does the need to develop more leaders and provide more leadership opportunities.

Progress continues on our new Union building in Aiea. Phases 1 and 2, focused on the new Training Center, is projected to be finished by this Summer 2026. The Training Center will have specific sections designed for each of the trades: Plumbing, AC/Refrigeration, Fire Sprinkler Systems, and Welding. Phases 3 and 4 will focus on the new Union and Administrative Offices with completion anticipated in 2027. Bringing Training, the Union Office, and the Administrative Office under one roof will provide members with more convenient access to resources and support.

In 2026 we have several key events ahead of us. The 41st UA Convention will be held in San Diego from August 17 - 21. The UA Conventions are held every five years as they give members a voice through elected delegates, policy decisions, constitutional amendments, and discussions on major issues affecting our industry. Notices for Local 675 nominations and elections were mailed on December 15, 2025, with nominations announced at the January 5, 2026 General Membership Meeting. We will also begin negotiations for a new Labor-Management Agreement, as the current contract expires on July 4, 2026 -a critical process impacting wages, benefits, and working conditions.

We understand the challenges that our members face every day and that's why our Union has an open-door policy. As we move into 2026, everything we do, from our workforce development to major construction and contract negotiations, is centered on supporting you and strengthening our membership. From workforce development and leadership training to major projects like our new Union building and upcoming contract negotiations, every effort is centered on protecting our members' interests and ensuring long-term stability. I look forward to continuing this work alongside our agents, officers, members, and contractors as we build a strong and secure future for Local 675.