WHEREAS, The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 98 was officially chartered on January 5, 1900 beginning with humble roots and growing over the past 125 years into a thriving organization of more than 5,000 members; and
WHEREAS, Since its founding, Local 98 has remained steadfast in its mission to unite electrical workers across the United States and Canada, including those in public utilities and local manufacturing, while advocating for fair wages, improved working conditions, and the professional development of its members; and
WHEREAS, During the 1920s, Local 98 took bold steps to protect labor rights, resisting “open shop” campaigns that threatened the existence of unions, and expanded its organizing efforts to extend jurisdiction into Camden, Chester, and Norristown; and
WHEREAS, Amid the hardships of the Great Depression, Local 98 demonstrated extraordinary solidarity and compassion, exemplified by union members rotating shifts on the construction of the PSFS building to ensure all had access to work; and
WHEREAS, Over the decades, Local 98 has continued to set the standard for excellence in the electrical industry by promoting rigorous training and apprenticeship programs, and in the 1990s, under the leadership of John Doughtery, expanded its curriculum to include electrical theory, code compliance, blueprint reading, and advanced mathematics; and
WHEREAS, Local 98 has consistently negotiated fair labor agreements to ensure balanced working hours, job security, and industry-leading safety standards, thereby promoting a high quality of life for members and their families; and
WHEREAS, Local 98 is widely recognized as one of the most financially successful IBEW locals in North America, serving as a model of leadership, advocacy, and organizational strength; and
WHEREAS, For 125 years, Local 98 has provided a workforce unmatched in skill, reliability, and dedication, while contributing to the development and prosperity of our City and region; and
WHEREAS, This legislative body proudly acknowledges the vital role of organized labor in building and sustaining strong communities, and extends heartfelt congratulations to IBEW Local 98 on this landmark anniversary; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, THAT THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, Hereby recognizes and congratulates
the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 98 on the momentous occasion of its 125th anniversary, celebrating over a century of exemplary leadership, advocacy, and unwavering dedication to the rights and welfare of electrical workers.
FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this Resolution be presented to the
International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 98
as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body.
End