A powerful bulldozer on muddy construction ground under a cloudy sky.

Candidate for iuoe Local 649 financial secretary

Serving Peoria’s Local 649 with Commitment and Experience Since 1992

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Meet Local 649’s Ponno Burns: Your Financial secretary candidate

My name is Ponno Burns, and I’m proud to be a candidate for Financial Secretary of our union. With over 33 years of hands-on industry experience and a legacy as a third-generation union member, I understand the value of hard work, transparency, and accountability.

I began my career with training through Atterbury Job Corps and the apprenticeship with IUOE Local 649, gaining the skills necessary to operate heavy equipment safely and effectively. Over the years, I’ve continued to invest in my education and growth — earning an Associate in Applied Science degree, a Cisco Network Specialist certification, and currently pursuing a degree in Construction Management with a Business minor from LSU.

In addition to my work in my field, I’m a small business owner, operating both a snowplowing service and a drone inspection business. These ventures reflect my strong work ethic, adaptability, and understanding of financial responsibility from multiple angles - as both a worker and an entrepreneur.

I’ve proudly served as Secretary for two nonprofit organizations and am currently in training to serve as Secretary within my Masonic Lodge. I also bring three years of experience as a seasonal tax preparer, giving me a strong foundation in managing finances with integrity and precision.

I’m running for Financial Secretary because I believe in protecting our union’s financial future. I bring trusted experience, a commitment to service, and a deep respect for the work we do. I would be honored to earn your support and represent your interests.

I will work to keep our union’s finances clear, organized, and accountable

Prioritize Financial Transparency And Union Member Interests.

I aim to enhance our union’s financial health by ensuring every dollar is accounted for. I’m committed to representing our members’ best interests, advocating for fair working conditions, and promoting job security for all union members.

Financial Accountability

I will work to improve union finances and advocate for fair conditions at Local 649 in Peoria.

Member Advocacy

I will champion workers’ rights and ensure member needs are prioritized at Local 649.

future-focused growth

Planning ahead to strengthen our union for the next generation.

intergrity in leadership

Serving with honesty, reliability, and respect.

Transparent Processes

I will focus on creating clear and open financial processes to benefit Local 649 members.

Worker Benefits

I will work to secure comprehensive benefits, ensuring all Local 649 members receive the support they deserve.

Round Table Discussion

Heavy-duty forklift parked among tropical palm trees in a sunny storage area.

Overcoming Skill Gaps in Heavy Equipment Operations

Ponno Burns / July 13, 2025

Hey there, fellow operators! If you’re part of the International Union of Operating Engineers like I am, you know the industry is constantly evolving. It’s an exciting time to be in this field, but with new technologies and machinery changes, it’s easy to feel like you’re falling behind. Don’t worry, you’re not alone.

Let’s talk about skill gaps. They can be a real bummer, right? We’ve all been there. One day, you’re expertly handling a piece of equipment you’ve known for years; the next, there’s a new model or tech update that you need to master. The pressure to keep up with these changes can be daunting.

So, how can we tackle these skill gaps effectively? First, I’ve found that continuous learning is key. Check out workshops or training sessions offered through Local 649

Standing in Solidarity: Reflections on the Springfield Rally — June 28, 2025

Ponno Burns / July 13, 2025

On June 28, letter carriers and supporters gathered outside the Springfield, IL main post office to protest proposed USPS cuts and the creeping threat of privatization. The rally sent a strong, clear message: the postal service belongs to the people, not private profit.

As a proud member of IUOE Local 649, I wasn’t there representing the Letter Carriers Union—but I was there as a union brother who understands that when one union is under threat, we all are.

The event was charged with unity. Signs reading “Save the Post Office” and “Hands Off USPS” were everywhere. Speakers highlighted real issues: staff shortages, rising workloads, and delayed delivery times that hurt communities and workers al

Navigating Union Leadership Changes Successfully

Ponno Burns / June 23, 2025

Hey there, Local 649 members! I’ve been chatting with a bunch of you lately, and I’ve noticed a common thread in our conversations—navigating leadership changes within our union can be a big challenge. Let’s face it, change isn’t always easy, especially when it impacts our day-to-day work and the way we operate together.

As a fellow member of the International Union of Operating Engineers, I totally get how daunting it can be when there’s a shift in leadership. You might wonder how these changes will affect your role, your work environment, or even the direction our union is heading in. It’s crucial to feel confident in the direction we’re moving, and having open, transparent communication plays a significant role in that.

So how do we tackle this? Here are a few t

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Thanks for reaching out! After you submit the form, I’ll get back to you as soon as possible to address your inquiries or provide any information you might need. I’m here to help with anything related to my campaign for Financial Secretary at the International Union of Operating Engineers - Local 649.

If you prefer, you can also send me an email or give me a call at (309) 363-8496. Looking forward to connecting with you!

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