AFGE Local 2206  wants to thank Commissioner Martin O’Malley

AFGE Local 2206  wants to thank Commissioner Martin O’Malley for his visit to the Birmingham Social Security Center. The Town Hall meeting was a good beginning and promise of a better relationship between the Union and Management. The Commissioner visited our Union office and introduced himself to our President Celeste Hood and Executive Vice President Cynthia Johns. He took selfies with our leaders and the Union was the first to speak and ask questions at the Town Hall Meeting. President Hood gave a statement from the General Committee and informed the Commissioner about the problems and concerns of our bargaining unit employees. Some of the concerns she mentioned include the ineffective training, the fact that management is still following the prior Executive Orders, the major understaffing, and the size of our union office. Pamela Ward, Vice-President of the Teleservice Center, gave a heart-wrenching account of the problems in the TSC including the micromanaging of the employees, lack of trust management has when employees are reporting issues, and the outdated technology that causes problems with our phone systems and increases the wait times for our callers. Chelsy Pickett, Steward in the Workload Support Unit, informed the Commissioner of the understaffing issues, VOD training that’s ineffective, massive workload, and that employees are underpaid and overworked. Our Local Representatives were outstanding in voicing the concerns and issues of our bargaining unit. We are encouraged by the Commissioner’s pledge to listen to the bargaining unit and his establishment of Engage SSA where employees can voice their opinions, suggestions, and concerns. Congratulations Commissioner O’Malley, we look forward to working with you!

In Solidarity,

 President Celestine Hood and Executive Vice President Cynthia Johns