Suspension of President & Second Vice President/Chief Steward

Dear Brothers and Sisters:

The AFSCME Local 685 Executive Board, acting pursuant to its responsibilities under the Local and International Constitutions, has taken action pursuant to Article IX, Section 48, of the AFSCME International Constitution to immediately suspend President Curtis Chambers and Second Vice President/Chief Steward James Jackson from the performance of their official duties, pending investigation and further action by AFSCME International.

The International President has been notified of the Executive Board's action and the circumstances giving rise to the suspensions. The appropriate constitutional process will now proceed in accordance with the AFSCME International Constitution.

The Executive Board did not take this action lightly. After careful consideration, a majority of the Executive Board determined that immediate action was necessary to protect the interests, integrity, and orderly operation of Local 685 while these matters are reviewed by AFSCME International.

The suspensions are interim measures and do not constitute a final determination regarding the matters under investigation. The Executive Board will respect the International's investigative process and asks the membership to do the same.

During this period, Local 685 will continue conducting its regular business, representing its members, enforcing our collective bargaining agreement, protecting members' rights, and fulfilling the responsibilities entrusted to this union.

We recognize the seriousness of suspending elected officers. However, the Executive Board has a responsibility to act when necessary to protect Local 685, its membership, and the integrity of our governing processes.

We ask our brothers and sisters to remain united and allow the constitutional process to proceed. We remain committed to transparency, accountability, and ensuring that Local 685 continues to operate in the best interests of its membership.

Thank you for your patience, professionalism, and continued commitment to AFSCME Local 685.

In Solidarity,

AFSCME Local 685 Executive Board