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Longshore and allied union leaders urge Port to prioritize union labor, shore security for America’s Cup
Summary
Representatives of Local 10 and other ILWU locals urged the Port Commission to use local longshore workers and security staff for America’s Cup operations and raised concerns about unfilled security posts at Pier 80.
Several union representatives used the public comment period to press the Port Commission to prioritize hiring local longshore and security workers for America's Cup-related operations.
Michael Villagiani, who identified himself as a Local 10 president of the International Longshore Warehouse Union, told commissioners the union is ready to handle cargo and event work and that members are trained to handle high-volume cargo operations. "We are ready to take on the American Cup and do the work," Villagiani said, asking that the Port ensure local labor participation in event-related leases and short-term agreements.
Krista Seminaro spoke in support of longshore labor, citing her family's longtime membership, and Patrick Kim, secretary treasurer of ILW Local 75 (Gateman and Watchmen's Union), described the union’s security experience at marine terminals and urged the Port and America's Cup managers to address what he called a security staffing void at Pier 80. Kim said Local 75 is well qualified and urged that certified local workers be used for credentialing and crowd control during events.
Speakers asked that upcoming short-term leases and operational decisions include plans to hire local union members for cargo handling and security work tied to America's Cup activities.
