Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Local 205, the labor organization representing Chattanooga general government employees, announced its endorsement of Andy Berke for mayor.
Union members evaluated the mayoral candidates’ policy positions and interviewed them to make their endorsement decision. SEIU members endorsed Andy Berke based on his history of supporting city workers, their families and the issues most important to the members of Local 205.
Mayor Berke was the first mayor to recognize a union for general government employees by signing a memorandum of understanding with SEIU. He’s worked with union members to develop an employee policy manual that is consistent across all city departments.
“Andy Berke is one of the most pro-worker mayors I’ve seen in a long time and we’re proud to continue supporting him,” said union member Blondel Garner, a Head Start teaching assistant who has worked for the city for over 20 years. “Andy knows how to treat people and he knows how to make our city successful.”
“I respect Andy Berke because he respects people who work for a living,” said Greg Hinton, a building maintenance mechanic. “We are not going to find another candidate for mayor who is as committed to workers and making Chattanooga great as Andy Berke … he’s already proven it.”
“We look forward to continuing to deepen our relationship with Andy by creating more efficient and productive ways to serve Chattanooga while also addressing employees concerns and issues,” said Brad Rayson, president of SEIU Local 205.
Election Day is on March 7, and early voting begins on Feb. 15. Complete information on early voting dates and voting locations is available from the Hamilton County Election Commission at 423 493-5100.