Everett Mayor and Snohomish County Executive Take Stand on Machinists Union Vote

Just got this release from the city of Everett regarding where the top two political leaders in Everett stand on tomorrow’s contract extension vote by the machinists union…

Mayor Ray Stephanson and Snohomish County Executive John Lovick today urged the Machinists union to approve the proposed contract extension with Boeing that would ensure the 777X is built in Washington state.

“This is a historic vote that has implications for future generations of Washingtonians,” said Stephanson. “We cannot miss this opportunity to secure our state’s future as the home of the world’s No. 1 aerospace company. I urge the Machinists to support this agreement that will keep the next generation of the 777 in Washington, where it belongs.”

“So much depends on this vote,” said Lovick. “The nation and the world are watching to see what happens. Our competitors will take advantage of any opportunity to move ahead of us. We know we have the best aerospace workers in the world, and we have earned that reputation through decades of hard work.”

On Monday, Gov. Jay Inslee signed two bills passed by the Legislature on Saturday that will extend tax incentives for Boeing, streamline permitting processes and provide funding for aerospace training. Boeing officials have said that if the 8-year contract is ratified, the 777X final assembly and wing fabrication will take place in the Puget Sound region.

“Our legislators recognize how vital Boeing is to our entire state,” said Stephanson. “The 777X provides security for current Boeing employees – and the many businesses that rely on Boeing – and it also represents opportunities for the students now in training for aerospace jobs.”

Both leaders acknowledged that the proposal requires concessions from union members, but said it is a competitive offer that provides security for the company, its employees and the rest of the state.

“A positive vote by the Machinists will influence our economic landscape for decades,” Stephanson said. “It will send a signal to the international aerospace community that Washington state is poised, prepared and ready to continue to build the best airplanes in the world. Boeing is deeply entwined in Washington’s history and I urge the Machinists to ensure that it remains a part of our future.”

“This vote is about securing legacy jobs – jobs that matter to this generation and the next. A yes vote shows the world Snohomish County is the best place to build the 777X,” said Lovick. “We know we are the gold standard when it comes to building airplanes; now is the time to remind our rivals.”