Over 400 Coachella Valley Water Workers Join Teamsters
Editorial StaffThe Facts -
- Teamsters Local 1932 has welcomed 433 new members from the Coachella Valley Water District following a vote to merge.
- The merger signifies a shift in power dynamics at the largest water district in Coachella Valley, offering workers a chance at meaningful change.
- The Coachella Valley Water District and other surrounding water districts play a crucial role in bringing water safely to communities throughout the arid Southern California low desert.
Expansion of Worker Power at Coachella Valley's Largest Water District
Contact: Mario Vasquez Phone: (909) 501-9232 Email: mvasquez@teamsters1932.org
In a significant shift of power dynamics, 433 new members from the Coachella Valley Water District (CVWD) are now part of Teamsters Local 1932, following a decisive vote to merge their independent association.
This crucial step towards change signifies growing worker power at CVWD, the largest water district in Coachella Valley, where employees had been dealing with job insecurity and lack of respect.
“This merger is a result of our collective effort. We’re ready to extend worker power at CVWD and beyond in our industry,” said David Cruz, a 16-year meter and valve technician at CVWD.
“Our 'yes' vote reaffirms our will to reestablish worker power at CVWD. Joining Teamsters enables us to effectively tackle increasing district-wide concerns,” echoed Joshua Rakes, a 16-year equipment operator at CVWD.
The crucial roles Coachella Valley Water District and other local water authorities play in supplying water to Southern California’s parched low desert communities cannot be understated.
Randy Korgan, Secretary-Treasurer of Local 1932, emphasized, “When you turn that faucet and water comes out, it's due to thousands of workers operating and maintaining a complex water delivery system. These workers deserve respect.”
“This is a huge progress for us, our families, and our entire region,” shared Buffy Ayala, an 18-year supervisory control and data acquisition operator at CVWD. “Our work is essential for people to live in this region, and we deserve fairness and respect.”
Teamsters Local 1932 represents over 14,000 workers in San Bernardino and Riverside Counties. For more information, visit Teamsters1932.org. For updates, follow us on social media at @1932Teamsters.
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