Local 517 represents approximately 600 exempt and non-exempt Washington County, Stillwater Library, and Cities of Stillwater, Oak Park Heights, Cottage Grove and Forest Lake employees.  The Executive Board is comprised of a president, vice president, treasurer, recording secretary, two chief stewards (one representing exempt and the other non-exempt), three E-Board at large members, three trustees and a membership secretary.  All positions, with the exception of the membership secretary, are elected positions.  Elections are held every March with the trustee positions staggered.

Republican legislators continue a barrage of amendments designed to  protect the power and privilege of the 1 percent while dividing the rest of Minnesota. AFSCME opposes these and all constitutional amendments that restrict rights or restrict revenue. Tell your legislators to keep these amendments off the ballot.  Read more >>>

All workers deserve decent wages, health care, and a secure retirement. That’s what AFSCME stands for, that’s what unions stand for, and that’s what the 99 percent stand for. Council 5 is supplying locals with winter-proof lawn signs so you can demonstrate that those are values you stand for, too. To get a sign: Contact your local union president.

Statement of AFSCME President Gerald W. McEntee after Pres. Obama’s State of the Union address Read more >>>

Click here for the 2012 schedule of meetings.

Click here for a list of Local 517 Stewards.

Last year, a record 1,500 AFSCME members ignited a push that saved 5,000 jobs; stopped $1.5 billion more in budget cuts; and defeated attacks on our pay, pensions and health care. We'll need to fight the same attacks this year – plus a new one that threatens our very existence as a union. Read more >>>

In-home child-care providers in Minnesota have been organizing with AFSCME Council 5 for six years. Despite attacks and lawsuits from right-wing opponents, they refuse to back down. Providers are self-employed business owners, says St. Paul provider Lisa Thompson. "But we're workers, too, and we want to have a say in our livlihood." Read more >>>

Click here to see a summary of legislative bills that could affect our jobs and pensions.

Most Minnesotans continue to pay more in state and local taxes so the rich can pay less, according to the newest Tax Incidence Study from the Minnesota Department of Revenue. Most Minnesotans pay more than 12 percent; millionaires pay less than 10 percent. Read more >>>