Dorsey Hager, Executive Secretary-Treasurer of the Columbus/Central Ohio Building Construction and Trades Council, joined the America’s Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the North Market Tower project. Hager also discussed the National Maintenance Board, the importance of the National Maintenance Agreements and outreach at the Ohio State Fair.
There was a proposal to create a multi-use tower in the North Market area of Columbus about six years ago. This North Market Tower would act as a centerpiece to the redevelopment of the area, as plans were in place to renovate the region. After issues with financing arose, the city elected to add $66 million dollars to assist in the development of the nearly $4 billion project, Hager said..
The National Maintenance Board is comprised of every General President from a Building Trades Unions or a representative. On this board, they work with Fortune 500 CEOs and energy companies to negotiate contracts that guarantee worker staffing from the underrepresented groups from the area where the projects take place and other requirements. These agreements are known as National Maintenance Agreements, which provide unions with work if they can provide the workforce for the jobs. Hager discussed these agreements for many projects around Columbus and Central Ohio.
The Columbus/Central Ohio Building Trades Council hosted a 3-day outreach event at the Ohio State Fair. Representatives from most of the building trades attended and showcased their work. There are hands-on activities for children of all ages to experience some of the work of the trades. The event is used to showcase the positive work unions do for their members and communities, Hager said.
Listen to the entire interview for more information from Hager’s interview.