As you’ve probably seen on social media, in your inbox and in text, Local 23 is voting for a new constitution in the coming weeks.

There’s going to be a lot of information coming your way, so we wanted to clear up any confusion and give you the facts.

The bottom line is that this constitution gives our union a clear roadmap for the future. We are growing every day, and this constitution protects our union’s future and most importantly YOU.

Below are some of the most frequently asked questions we’ve been hearing as we talk to members about this vote. But if you have a question that’s not covered please reach out to your field representative, chapter chair or talk with your fellow members. Our union is strongest when we’re informed, involved, and looking out for one another.

Constitution FAQs

1. Why are we voting on a new constitution?

Local 23 was created by merging several locals. The International Union gave us a temporary model constitution until we could create and adopt our own. This vote is the final step in putting our locally written constitution in place that gives our members a constitution of their own.

2. How was the new constitution created?

The constitution committee was made up of members, officers, and previous leaders. They reviewed feedback, collected input, and drafted the new document in an open, transparent, and inclusive process that considered all ideas. The International Union reviewed it and confirmed what could be changed and what needed to stay consistent with other BAC locals.

3. Did members have a chance to give input?

Yes. Members were invited to share comments and concerns. Members selected constitution committee members for each chapter to be their voice as the constitution was being drafted. An overwhelming majority of the constitution committee agreed on the new constitution. All feedback was reviewed. While not every idea could be included, the process was open and inclusive.

4. Why do most members see a reduction in dues?

The new constitution sets dues at 4.25 percent. This is lower than the previous 4.5 percent rate. About three out of every four members will see a reduction.

5. Why are some members seeing an increase?

A small number of members will see an increase because the new structure replaces multiple separate fees and funds with one simple, uniform dues amount. These members will also gain access to more services and consistent support and will not have to pay increases in any other fees or pay into separate funds moving forward.

6. What is different about the new dues system?

All dues go into one unified structure. There are no extra fees. It is simple, fair, and transparent. The vast majority of your dues stay in the local to support representation and member benefits.

7. Are any services or programs being lost?

No. Nothing is being taken away. Targeting remains in place. Buildings stay with the union. All services and benefits continue. This is your constitution and it is designed to serve and empower all members.

8. Is this a political election?

No. This vote is about how we run our union. It is not a campaign or political race. It is a constitutional process outlined in the union’s bylaws that follows the same rules as the International Union.

9. Who is allowed to vote?

All eligible members of Local 23 can vote. Eligibility, protests, and appeals follow the same process used by the International Union.

10. Will this dues rate stay the same forever?

The dues rate will be reviewed again in one year to make sure it is working for all members.

11. What does the Constitution actually change?

It clarifies procedures, improves transparency, aligns Local 23 with IU standards, and gives us a clear roadmap for dues, elections, representation, and chapter structure.

12. Why should members vote?

Your vote helps build a stronger, more unified Local 23 for you. Member participation makes the union stronger, protects your rights, and ensures your voice is part of shaping the future.

Get ready for a fun day on Sunday, September 6 with family, friends and fellow members at Cedar Point and King’s Island!

As a BAC Local 23 member, you are eligible to redeem up to 4 all-inclusive tickets that include Park & Water Park Admission, parking, a catered meal and a drink wristband at either King’s Island or Cedar Point.

Last year, we had a great turnout so hey let’s get together again and have even more fun this year.

The deadline to request tickets is August 23, 2026. Use your IU# as your gift code to redeem your tickets. *Omit beginning “0”s in IU#*

Here are the details for each park:

King’s Island:

www.visitkingsisland.com/save

Username: BAC23

Password: ORION

The picnic meal will be served from 12 p.m. to 1:30 p.m on Sunday, Sept. 6.

Cedar Point

www.cedarpoint.com/save

Username: cpbricklayers

Password: bricklayers

The picnic meal will be served from 1:30 p.m to 3 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 6.

Foti Contracting

Foti Contracting is looking for bricklayers for the new Lake County Safety Center located in Painesville, OH. The building consists of 250,000 interior cmu units and 275,000 face brick intertwined with cast stone. The project has a 9-month schedule. Foti is currently working Saturdays and is paying $43.08/hr plus benefits. If you’re interested, reach out to John Innamorato at 216-789-7184.

L.M.R. Construction Company Inc.

L.M.R. Construction Company Inc. has the following job opportunities in the Cleveland area. For more details or if you are interested please reach out to Will Rickelman, General Superintendent, at 216-469-7039.

Woodbury School in Shaker Heights.

Cleveland Rehabilitation Hospital in Seven Hills.

Arcadia in Shaker Heights

Adelbert Gym at Case Western Reserve

Women’s Religious Archives in Cleveland.

Bedford Middle School

Jesus Ochoa at the 2026 Electrical Trades Center and IBEW Local 683 Open House! Talking with folks interested in a career in the trades!