Poloncarz appoints commissioner of labor relations

Erie County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz has announced the appointment of Steven Miller to the position of commissioner of labor relations. Miller, who in the past has served as the president of the Communications Workers of America Local 1129, and as president of the Northeast Central Labor Council, AFL-CIO, brings negotiating, leadership and organizational skills to the position.

He will begin March 23.

"Steven brings a broad skill set to Erie County, with wide experience and an understanding of the issues surrounding labor on both sides of the table, and he will be essential to upcoming contract negotiations," Poloncarz said. "My administration has placed a high priority on settling union contracts fairly, with resulting savings to county residents totaling nearly $136 million. Foresight and fiscal prudence are critical to completing the task, and I look forward to working with Steven on future labor relations issues."

"The position of commissioner of labor relations for Erie County is a unique and challenging opportunity - one that I am excited to undertake," Miller said. "I am looking forward to using my experience to continue the success that County Executive Poloncarz' administration has accomplished in the area of labor relations, specifically contract negotiations. The knowledge and skills I have acquired over the course of my career will be an asset when balancing the needs of workers and the citizens of Erie County."

In addition to serving as president, Miller's tenure with the CWA included work as chief negotiator, along with arbitration and grievance advocacy. He represented workers in the fields of health care, manufacturing, telecommunications, clerical and public employees during bargaining processes and was involved in all facets of those processes.