PPOA President
Lieutenant, LASD
nescobedo@ppoa.com
Where has the time gone by? We are past the middle of 2023, and 2024 will be here before we know it.
Elections for Board positions will take place in October, and as we look toward the future, I believe it is essential to continue having strong, dedicated individuals leading PPOA. Although it is important to have institutional knowledge, it is equally important to have leadership with fresh ideas to move forward with the union movement. You may be reading this asking yourself, “Why should I consider running?” Below are a few reasons.
Leadership plays a crucial role in shaping policies, decisions and direction in every organization. This is particularly true for PPOA, which advocates for the welfare and rights of its members. The Board of Directors is the heart of PPOA, responsible for representing members’ interests and making crucial decisions that affect both the force and the communities they serve. This article will explore the importance of running for the Board of Directors and how it can bring positive change and a stronger voice for members.
Representation and Amplification
One of the primary reasons for running for the PPOA Board of Directors is the opportunity to represent fellow members. The Board serves as a conduit between members and the union, ensuring their voices and concerns are heard. Individuals on the Board can actively amplify their peers’ needs, ideas and suggestions, creating a more inclusive and effective decision-making process.
Fostering Positive Change
Serving on the PPOA Board of Directors presents a unique opportunity to contribute to positive organizational change. The Board plays a crucial role in setting policies, negotiating contracts and implementing programs directly impacting members and their work environment. Board members can introduce innovative ideas, advocate for improved training and resources, and address issues affecting officers and their communities.
Strengthening Community Bonds
Effective policing goes beyond law enforcement; it involves building strong relationships with the community and leadership stakeholders. By joining the Board, directors have an opportunity to be ambassadors of change and bridge the gap between members and the respective department heads. They can work toward enhancing community outreach, promoting transparency and fostering mutual trust and respect between members and the people they protect.
Advocating for Officer Rights
Safeguarding members’ rights and welfare is an essential function of the PPOA Board of Directors. Being part of the Board empowers individuals to actively participate in discussions about fair wages, benefits, working conditions and overall well-being, ensuring that members’ interests are protected and promoted in all aspects of their professional lives.
Personal and Professional Growth
Running for the PPOA Board of Directors offers a valuable personal and professional growth opportunity. Board members gain exposure to strategic decision-making, negotiation skills, conflict resolution and leadership development. These experiences benefit their roles within the union and serve them well in their careers as law enforcement officers.
It is imperative to have a strong and efficient Board of Directors to ensure the smooth functioning of an organization. The current Board of Directors is comprised of individuals with diverse perspectives and experiences, which empowers them to make well-informed decisions that benefit all PPOA members. However, it is essential to incorporate new leadership further to improve the welfare of every member of the PPOA.
If you are interested in getting more involved with your union, I encourage you to consider serving on the PPOA Board (see the nominating petition on page 17), or joining more than 100 PPOA delegates for quarterly meetings or volunteering to serve on a committee to verify ballot counts, annual audits and more.
In closing, PPOA will hold its 22nd Annual Pre-Labor Day BBQ on Wednesday, August 30, at the Biscailuz Center for members and immediate family. Join hundreds of fellow PPOA members for a free lunch, giveaways, drawings, music, vendors and more. I hope to see you there!