THE EVERETT ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2021 Page 7 North Atlantic Carpenters Union cites labor dispute at 600 Broadway By Christopher Roberson O rganizer Martin Sanchez and the North Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters are crying foul because Everett carpenters are not being allowed to work on the new mixed-use building at 600 Broadway. Callahan Construction was selected as the general contractor for the project, which is known as The 600 Apartment Complex. Callahan then hired Optiline Enterprises as a subcontractor. According to Optiline’s website, the company specializes in interior and exterior steel framing, drywall and drywall finishes as well as insulation and soundproofing. “That company doesn’t comply with the area standards,” Sanchez said when the protest began on December 1. “We don’t want a union contract; we just want a responsible contractor.” Union Regional Manager Richard Pedi said the Carpenters Union does not agree with Callahan’s business practices, adding that the company has a history of not paying employees fairly. Therefore, he said, the union would never submit a bid to Callahan. “This is not personal, this Organizer Martin Sanchez (left) of the North Atlantic Carpenters Union and David Jean-Baptiste are pictured at the 600 Broadway construction site. (Advocate Photo by Christopher Roberson) is business,” said Pedi. He also said Optiline is even worse. “Optiline is one of the biggest offenders,” he said. “Optiline’s business practice is horrible.” In addition, Pedi said bids can only be submitted to a general contractor not to a subcontractor as the subcontractor hires its Whittier School Turkey Toss Winners own workers. Despite the union’s position, Pedi said local carpenters still deserve the opportunity to work for Optiline. “A jobsite should be reflective of the community,” he said. Ward 1 Councillor Fred CaCARPENTERS | SEE PAGE 19 CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING December 3, 2021 5:00 PM● Please come to the SACRO PLAZA for Food and Refreshments in the lobby of the building Kenneth Giannelli (left) and John Marazzi were named the winners of this year’s Whittier School Turkey Toss. (Photo Courtesy of the Everett Public Schools) For Advertising with Results, call The Advocate Newspapers at 617-387-2200 or Info@advocatenews.net
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