John V. Chiarello Sworn in as President of Transportation Workers Union Local 100
The Transportation Workers Union Local 100 has announced a significant shift in leadership as veteran union member John V. Chiarello was sworn in as the new President. This move comes as the local prepares for crucial contract negotiations later this year, placing the focus squarely on the future direction of this vital transportation workers union. Chiarello, previously the Secretary-Treasurer, steps into the presidency following the resignation of the former president in January.
With two decades of dedicated service to the union, Chiarello has steadily climbed the ranks, demonstrating his commitment to the members of this transportation workers union. His previous roles include Chair of the Line Equipment-Signals Division and Vice President of Maintenance of Way, the union’s largest department. This extensive experience positions him well to lead Local 100 through the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
In his inaugural address to the Executive Board, President Chiarello invoked the fighting spirit of TWU founder Mike Quill, signaling a robust approach to upcoming negotiations. “We will take no crap from management, and we will do what needs to be done to get what our members expect and deserve,” Chiarello asserted. He emphasized a proactive stance, stating, “If that includes knocking down walls and shaking some foundations, we will do it,” underlining his commitment to aggressively represent the interests of the transportation workers union members.
Unity was a central theme of Chiarello’s message as he acknowledged the significant challenges facing TWU Local 100. Foremost among these are the impending contract negotiations. Chiarello anticipates a tough stance from MTA Chairman Janno Lieber, suggesting Lieber may attempt to address the MTA’s financial concerns by seeking concessions from transit workers. Specifically, the potential loss of revenue from congestion pricing adds another layer of complexity to the financial landscape the transportation workers union must navigate.
Chiarello did not mince words when assessing the opposition. “Lieber sweet talks the media and appears to be rational,” he commented, “But he’s not. He is the most significant enemy that we in the Local and at the International have had in a long time.” This strong statement sets the tone for what is expected to be a combative negotiation period for this transportation workers union.
Echoing this sentiment, TWU International President John Samuelsen offered his congratulations and reinforced the need for a united front. “Congratulations to President Chiarello and new top leadership of Local 100,” Samuelsen stated. “The focus must immediately be put on fighting back against transit workers’ enemy, MTA CEO Janno Lieber, and the bosses who seek to harm us.” This unified message from both local and international leadership underscores the seriousness with which the transportation workers union is approaching the upcoming challenges.
Alongside Chiarello’s ascension to President, the Executive Board also approved other key leadership changes. Carlos Bernabel, formerly the Administrative Vice President, now assumes the role of Secretary-Treasurer. Alexander Kemp, previously Vice Chair of the TA Surface Division, steps into the position of Administrative Vice President. Shirley Martin will continue her service as Recording Secretary, ensuring continuity within the leadership structure of this transportation workers union.
President Chiarello’s journey with NYC Transit began in 2001 as a provisional Car Inspector, followed by his role as a Signal Maintainer. His involvement with the transportation workers union deepened when he was first elected to the Executive Board in 2002. He further solidified his leadership within the union by becoming Division Chair of Line Equipment-Signals in 2009, a position he was re-elected to three times. In 2017, he advanced to Maintenance of Way Vice President, serving two terms before his election as Secretary-Treasurer in 2024, ultimately leading to his current role as President of this influential transportation workers union.
Carlos Bernabel’s career in transportation began in 1998 as a Bus Operator with Liberty Lines in Westchester County. His union involvement commenced in 2003 with his election as depot Recording Secretary. Bernabel’s leadership path within the transportation workers union includes becoming Division Chair of Private Operations in 2017 and Administrative Vice President in 2024, now culminating in his appointment as Secretary-Treasurer.
Alexander Kemp joined NYC Transit as a Bus Operator in 2011. His union leadership began in 2021 when he was elected Local 100 Division Recording Secretary & Executive Board of TA Surface. Kemp’s continued dedication saw him re-elected to the Executive Board and as 1st Division Vice Chair in 2024, before his current appointment as Administrative Vice President within this prominent transportation workers union.
These leadership changes within TWU Local 100 signal a period of focused preparation as the transportation workers union gears up for critical contract negotiations. With experienced leaders like Chiarello, Bernabel, and Kemp at the helm, the union is positioning itself to vigorously advocate for its members’ interests in the face of anticipated challenges.
