THE IMPACT OF LOCAL UNION POLITICS

This study examined the impact of politically-motivated union actions on jobsite costs of the union contractor. It found that electioneering on the jobsite, post-election effects (especially after a hotly-contested election), and patronage activities can significantly add to contractor costs. The cost impact varies greatly from one situation to another--depending on such unrelated circumstances as the size of the job, the insecurity of the incumbent union officials, and the managerial competence of the contractor. These direct costs are probably overshadowed financially by concessions demanded and won in collective bargaining and the ongoing erosion of management rights. However, many other forces affect bargaining and the decay of management rights in addition to political pressures on local union officials. The study team does not recommend any change in the democratic structure of the building trades unions. Political actions by union leaders are an inherent and necessary element of this structure, and they can contribute to a jobsite environment in which productivity improvements can be made. Detrimental cost effects which sometimes occur can be minimized if contractors are sensitive to their potential impact, adopt firm and equitable management practices, and take appropriate preventive steps. (Author)

  • Supplemental Notes:
    • A Construction Industry Cost Effectiveness Project Report.
  • Corporate Authors:

    Business Roundtable

    200 Park Avenue
    New York, NY  United States  10166
  • Publication Date: 1982-6

Media Info

  • Pagination: 13 p.

Subject/Index Terms

Filing Info

  • Accession Number: 00391408
  • Record Type: Publication
  • Report/Paper Numbers: Report C-7
  • Files: TRIS
  • Created Date: Feb 28 1985 12:00AM