International Secretary-Treasurer William T. Creeden told delegates that the union’s financial picture has improved markedly in recent months, thanks largely to cost-saving initiatives implemented by IP Newton Jones and the International Executive Council.

Those initiatives “will result in net savings of $5.5 million annually going forward,” he said. “I am pleased to report that as of May 31, 2006 both the General Fund and the Consolidated Funds are in the black,” he added.

“No International union has better, more dedicated, or harder working lodge officers than this International Brotherhood.”

IST Creeden also announced a more efficient way of handling local lodge membership reports. The International intends to implement a new system that will allow posting monthly dues and processing address changes online. Once the program has been tested, it will be made available to local lodges.

He also urged support for various Law Committee recommendations designed to improve the handling and processing of revenue.

IST Creeden added: “Our members enjoy better wages, benefits, and working conditions than at any other time in the history of the Brotherhood.”