August 2026 Newsletter
First, an open letter from AFSCME Local 517 President, Ben Henry:
An Open Letter From Ben
Hello everyone,
I know AFSCME Local 517 has been relatively quiet for a bit but that doesn't mean we have stopped working on your behalf. We've continued to see a steady stream of investigations and disciplinary actions involving our members, and we will continue to grieve and avail ourselves at every opportunity that we can. Our new interim field rep, Tanya Hollan, has been a great addition and is helping guide members through some difficult workplace situations. As always, these processes take time; the unfair labor practice claims from the RTO order period are still moving through the system.
The short-term disability change allowing open enrollment without evidence of insurability has passed the insurance labor-management committee and should be available for anyone wanting to enroll late for 2027 at our next open enrollment.
I continue to highlight the healthcare affordability crisis, mental health crisis, and general affordability crisis at every opportunity. I've participated in candidate screenings for our area (both incumbents and challengers), and this week attended a town hall in St. Paul to share our union's priorities with state representatives. When I haven't been able to attend an event myself, others from our group have stepped in to ask questions of candidates seeking our endorsement.
We're also working with HR on making mental health resources easier to find, starting with a one-page reference guide, and next we'll be working with them to get those resources more visible on Sharepoint. If you're struggling and need resources or even just want to talk, please reach out. You are not alone. Conversations are kept confidential unless there's a safety concern, and even then, our goal is always to connect you with support in the most discreet way possible.
We're continuing to build out our steward bench so we can better serve everyone's needs. If you've been thinking about getting more involved, we'd love to hear from you.
Finally, HR and I are gathering feedback from anyone who's used the new Evolution program. If you've tried it, we'd love to hear how it's going. Feel free to send me a note at your convenience.
That's everything for now. Let us know if you need anything!
In Solidarity,
Ben Henry
Updates
General Membership Meeting Date Moved
The General Membership Meeting for August has been moved due to scheduling conflicts. It will be occurring August 26th from 12-1pm virtually via WebEx. Links will be sent to personal and work emails.
Your New Contract
The new 2025-2028 contracts are up on our website! Local 517 Contracts 2025-2028 | Local 517 Washington County. Reviewing your new contract especially pairs well with a refresher on your rights as an employee.
AFSCME Council 5 Convention: September 24 - September 26, in Minneapolis!
Nominations are now being accepted for delegates to represent AFSCME Local 517 at our annual convention. Every year, delegates from AFSCME Council 5 local throughout the state gather to set our union’s priorities. There are debates on resolutions, workshops, updates from leaders, networking, and more! The best part? ANY dues paying member in good standing can be a delegate!
Ok, I'm in! How do I become a delegate?
Members can nominate themselves, or be nominated by another member. Members nominated by another member must accept the nomination prior to the election, if interested. Nominations can be emailed to afscme517secretary@gmail.com with “Convention Delegate Nomination” in the subject line before 4:00pm on Monday, August 24th. Nominations (and an election, if needed) can also occur at the general membership meeting on August 26th, 2026. Please direct any questions to the above email as well.
Steward Call
With our new contract, we are in need of stewards! Stewards provide support and representation in regards to workplace issues or contract violations.
If you would like to learn more, please fill out our Steward Interest Form: Union Steward Interest Form
Chisago County Strike
Teamsters Local 320 at Chisago County has been on strike for over 100 days. We would like to express our solidarity with them as county workers. If you’d like to receive updates from them, their facebook page is a great place to follow.
Due to budgetary reasons, we will not be able to contribute financially as a local, but individuals who would like to donate can refer to the following page on the Teamsters Local 320 Website: Teamsters Local 320
Voting Season
Voting Season is upon us, and it doesn’t start in November! Primaries will be happening across the state on August 11th. To get a sample ballot, click here: Minnesota Secretary Of State - Elections & Voting
Welcome, New Executive Board Members!
Lynne Freezy, Executive Board Member At-Large
Lizzy Grover, Executive Board Member At-Large
Tanika Gockowski, Trustee
Save The Date: Labor Day Party
We're planning a party for Labor Day 2026! Only thing is, we need some help deciding what exactly to do. If any of you are interested in helping us plan, or if you have any ideas for activities or locations, please email Kaitlyn McCarthy at: afscme517secretary@gmail.com
Until next time!
In Solidarity,
Your AFSCME Local 517 Leadership Team