Local 347 has announced a dramatic increase in union dues, implementing what Eugene Dawson is calling the "Sweet Pie Tax"—a 20% surcharge on all contracted work.
"Nobody lays pipe in this town unless I get a piece," Dawson announced at a union hall meeting, spraying crumbs as he spoke through a mouthful of pastry. "You want to work? You pay. It's that simple."
“Nobody lays pipe in this town unless I get a piece.”
The new dues structure has sent shockwaves through the local plumbing community. For independent operators already struggling with rising costs, the additional burden could prove fatal to their businesses.
"Twenty percent on top of everything else? That's not a union fee, that's extortion," said one small business owner who asked not to be identified for fear of retaliation.
Dawson has dismissed such complaints as whining. "You people don't understand economics. The union provides services. Protection. Opportunity. That costs money, and someone's gotta pay."
The "protection" aspect of Dawson's pitch has raised particular concern. Several contractors report receiving late-night visits from union representatives after expressing reluctance to pay.
Mike Tucker, long a thorn in the union's side, has publicly called for an investigation. "Dawson's running a racket, plain and simple. Someone needs to stand up."
Asked to respond to Tucker's accusations, Dawson smiled broadly. "Mike Tucker's days are numbered. One way or another."
