Brothers and Sisters,
We are facing a critical moment regarding our jurisdictional work. The company is continuing to push their agenda under the guise of the new Pipeline Retirement Program, and their intent is clear: they want to hand over customer-facing work to outside contractors.
Protecting Our Jurisdiction: The Pipeline Retirement Program
As many of you are aware, we are entering a critical phase of the city-wide Pipeline Retirement Program. While the modernization of our infrastructure is a necessity for the safety of Chicago, the way that work is being executed is a battleground for our union.
The company’s intentions are clear: they aim to outsource ‘inside work’—specifically customer-facing tasks and relights—to outside contractors. This is a direct threat to our jurisdiction and the long-term stability of our Local. Your Executive Board has been working tirelessly to push back on these frontlines. We have formally filed a grievance and prepared comprehensive testimony for the Illinois Commerce Commission (I.C.C.), proving that the company’s plan is not the most cost-effective or safest path forward. However, the strength of our legal and regulatory battle depends on you. We need the membership to remain vigilant, take ownership of the work on-site, and show the company that no contractor can match the skill and dedication of Local 18007.
We cannot allow the company to outsource our future.
- Get Out of the Truck: It is more important than ever that we are proactive. Every time we pull up to a job site, we need to be the ones “getting out of the truck” and taking ownership of the work.
- Customer Safety & Quality: Our members are the most highly trained, skilled gas workers in the country. Contractors do not have the same commitment to the safety of Chicago’s residents that we do. Keeping contractors out of the customer’s house isn’t just about union jobs; it’s about public safety.
- Engagement is Key: If you see contractors performing work that belongs to Local 18007, document it and report it to your steward immediately. We are fighting this at the bargaining table, but the most effective defense happens on the street. Show the company—and the customers—that the “Gold Standard” of service only comes from Local 18007.
Community Corner: Northwest Side Irish Parade
On a lighter, but equally important note, it is time to show our pride and support our local community.
We are calling on all members and their families to come out for the Northwest Side Irish Parade this weekend. It’s a great opportunity to stand together, have some fun, and remind everyone that Local 18007 is a staple of these neighborhoods.
- When: Sunday, March 15, 2026
- Time: Meet @ staging area 11:00 AM
- Where: Norwood Park (Steps off 12:00pm at William J. Onahan School, 6633 W. Raven, Chicago)
- Parking: Available at 10 a.m. (St. Thecla School, 6323 N. Newcastle, Chicago)
Let’s make sure we have a strong turnout. Wear your union gear, bring your families, and let’s enjoy the day as a united front.
In Solidarity,
Nick Passarelli
President, Gas Workers Local 18007
