Amalgamated Transit Union Local 689 called for new federally appointed Metro Board member David Strickland’s immediate resignation on Wednesday July 6th, citing a clear conflict of interest. This complicates negotiations that began recently to renew multiyear union contracts for Metro workers. Strickland is a partner at the Venable law firm, which is Metro’s top legal adviser on labor negotiations. ATU local 689’s president Jackie L. Jeter said, “Venable is well known as an anti-union law firm with a history of going around the country instructing companies on tactics to weaken and break unions. Strickland’s association as a partner with Venable is too strong to be separated from his board duties.” Jeter warned that Strickland could prejudice the rest of the board regarding the current negotiations even if he recused himself. “Recusal from votes is not enough when you play a key role in influencing other people on the board who do have a vote,” she said. – Christian Berk
- adapted from a report in the Washington Post
- adapted from a report in the Washington Post