BREAKING NEWS: Teamsters Local 320 Launches Search for New Union Home
Following the historic 2025 merger of Local 1145 into Local 320, leadership is taking bold steps toward the future of our union. In response to direct member feedback regarding limited parking, safety concerns, and general accessibility at our current union hall, the Executive Board has initiated a search for a new, permanent facility.
Because our current leasing arrangement requires us to split costly renovation bills without building equity, the Executive Board determined that continuing to rent is no longer in the financial interest of our membership. To ensure our hard-earned resources are invested into a true asset that builds long-term strength, a dedicated Building Search Committee was formed to find a property we can own.
The Building Search Committee is comprised of a diverse group of member voices representing various sectors of our union:
- Shawn Williams (Business Agent & Committee Chair)
- Tom Eilek (Forest Lake Schools)
- Laural O’Rouke (Board of Public Defense)
- Ed Reynoso (Retiree)
- Terri Chromey (Honeywell Aerospace)
- Sean Pitzer (ASF)
- Brian Bigham (South Washington County Schools)
Partnering with a commercial real estate broker, the committee recently analyzed 10 potential properties across the Twin Cities. Each site was evaluated against a strict checklist designed to best serve our membership, focusing on adequate parking, cost, enhanced security, public transit access, highway proximity, and room for future growth.
The committee has successfully narrowed the list down to the top four properties. Following in-person tours, they are now finalizing their top recommendations for the Executive Board.
What Happens Next?
Your voice will determine the final outcome. In the near future, Local 320 will host a series of in-person and virtual meetings to present the committee's findings and recommendations. Following these informational sessions, a vote will be scheduled to allow the membership to officially decide whether we continue leasing our current space or purchase our own union hall to let our assets work directly for the members.
Please watch for upcoming meeting announcements and updates on this developing project.
