Business Manager for Ironworkers Local 550, William (Bill) Sherer II, joined the America’s Work Force Union Podcast to talk about his recent election victory to be the next Mayor of Canton, Ohio. Sherer also discussed what it will be like to take part in contract negotiations from the other side of the table, and the ongoing expansion efforts of the Pro Football Hall of Fame Village.
Sherer described his recent election victory as a bittersweet moment, as his family was been leading Local 550 for several decades. Once he leaves, it will be the end of the bloodline of Local 550 members. They are currently 75 percent complete with the transition of power at the Local. Meanwhile, his transition to the Mayor’s office is much simpler, and the support staff is already in place and secure in their positions.
Looking forward to 2024, Sherer now has to look at negotiating contracts with Unions from a manager position. Throughout the campaign, he visited local union meetings to gauge the relationship status between the city and other unions. At the end of 2024, Sherer said he has his first two big negotiations-with the city firefighters and police officers.
Sherer also discussed the ongoing work with the Hall of Fame Village expansion. The almost $700 million in work has all been done under Project Labor Agreements. There is still several pieces left for expansion within the village. The goal is to make Canton a week-long vacation destination instead of just a daily trip, and Sherer is hopeful the project will have a positive impact on the future of the city of Canton.
To hear more from Sherer please listen to the show above.