South Shore Local Ends Affiliation with NEPBA

A long-time affiliate of the New England Police Benevolent Association has terminated its relationship and joined the United Federation of Police Officers, Inc. The Cohasset, MA Police Association joined the growing number of New England Unions looking to join the United Federation of Police Officers.

The picturesque seaside community of Cohasset, MA is located along the south shore of Massachusetts, which has been the target of growth by the United Federation of Police Officers, Inc. The Cohasset Police Association ended its affiliation with the New England PBA and signed an affiliation agreement earlier with the United Federation of Police Officers.

Cohasset Police Association Executive Board stated, “The Cohasset Police Association is looking forward to a long and happy relationship with the UFPO. We are excited about the exceptional legal services provided by UFPO Attorney Howard Lenow. But the selling point for the switch was the proven track record and experience of their representatives.”

National Director of Organizing Chris Hoar called the Cohasset Police Association, “A very aggressive and determined group of police officers who should be excited about joining an aggressive law enforcement labor organization.” Hoar continued, “A welcomed addition to our growing family of law enforcement officers, and we are looking forward to providing them with exceptional and experienced service they deserve.”

Bellows Falls, VT – November 7, 2025 – The United Federation of Police Officers (UFPO) has filed a petition on behalf of the Bellows Falls Police Association, signaling the department’s unanimous decision to seek new union representation. The move marks a decisive step away from their former labor representation and reflects the employees’ shared commitment to stronger, more dedicated advocacy.

“The Bellows Falls Police Department unanimously voted to leave the NEPBA and join the United Federation of Police Officers,” said Ofc. Josh Lake, President of the Bellows Falls Police Association. “We believe it is in our best interest to continue working with those most vested in the interests of the BFPA, and the broader law enforcement community. I look forward to a long and healthy partnership with the UFPO.”

UFPO leadership welcomed the decision and expressed their commitment to Bellows Falls’ law enforcement professionals. “We’re honored to have the unanimous support of the Bellows Falls Police Association,” said UFPO Representative Chris Hoar. “Their members serve their community with professionalism and dedication, and we look forward to ensuring their voices are heard and their priorities advanced at every level.”

The Bellows Falls Police Association’s decision adds to the continued momentum of Vermont law enforcement professionals seeking out UFPO for its reputation of responsive service and proven advocacy.

On October 30th, our Executive Board and local members attended the first Basic Practice and Procedures training session held by the New York Public Employment Relations Board (PERB) in Albany, NY. This session covered topics like Public Employment Relations Board & Taylor Law, Impasse Procedures under the Taylor Law, Injunctive Relief and Enforcement of Public Employment Relations Boards Orders, Mediation Process, Procedure & Practice to Improper Practice Charges and Case Law with Improper Practice Charges.

The session was packed with over 180 different professionals in attendance from across the state. This training provided both labor and management with insightful information for when you need to file with PERB. The Staff from New York Public Employment Relations Board has wealth of experience and it showed in their presentation.

We are proud to announce that our Executive Board and numerous local members have successfully completed specialized Taylor Law training session, further strengthening our commitment to excellence and growth within the labor movement. This training was hosted by Davis & Ferber LLP, New York legal counsel for the United Federation of Police Officers (UFPO).

The session was packed with over 100 different law enforcement professionals providing them with insightful information and practical takeaways. The Davis & Ferber LLP team brought a wealth of experience to the table, covering numerous critical areas.

It was an excellent refresher for our membership and a reminder of the importance of having knowledgeable, committed representation and legal professionals supporting union efforts.

Thank you to Davis & Ferber LLP for your dedication to labor advocacy and for equipping people with the tools to navigate these issues more effectively as the labor movement get more complexed.

These seminars reflect UFPO dedication to continuous training, learning and professional development of our leadership, staff and membership. Congratulations to all participants for their engagement and achievement!

Springfield, VT – September 25, 2025 – The United Federation of Police Officers (UFPO) has filed a petition with the Vermont Labor Relations Board (VLRB) on behalf of the Springfield Police Association, marking an important step in the department’s pursuit of new union representation.

This decision carries particular weight for Springfield’s Law Enforcement Professionals, who have faced challenging circumstances in recent months, including an officer involved shooting, and are seeking stronger, more responsive advocacy moving forward. The Springfield Police Association was also the first Vermont Local of the New England Police Benevolent Association (NEPBA) in 2008. By signing cards in overwhelming numbers, the members made clear their desire for change and confidence in UFPO staff’s commitment to their needs.

“Our members have endured a lot and stood together through it,” said Sgt. Perkins, President of the Springfield Police Association. “The choice to pursue representation with UFPO reflects our members’ determination to secure an organization who will stand by them, protect them, and give them the voice they deserve.”

UFPO leadership welcomed Springfield’s decision, underscoring their pledge to provide the kind of engaged and reliable local representation the officers are looking for. “Springfield’s membership has shown extraordinary resilience and dedication,” said UFPO Representative Chris Hoar. “We’re honored by their trust and will ensure they receive the strong advocacy and support they’ve asked for.”

If certified by the VLRB following the election, Springfield will join a growing number of Vermont law enforcement associations who have chosen the UFPO as their union representative.

Dear Members,

We’re proud to announce the United Federation of Police Officers (UFPO) has retained Andy Montroll, Esq., Partner at MOB Law Offices in the City of Burlington, Vermont.

Attorney Montroll is an experienced employment attorney, bringing valuable expertise in navigating complex workplace issues and protecting the rights of professionals. His proven track record and deep connection to our community give us complete confidence Attorney Montroll will be a powerful advocate for our membership.

In addition to his professional experience, Attorney Montroll brings with him a distinguished background of public service and civic leadership. Served on the Burlington City Council for fifteen years, including four as Council President, during a time when the city was significantly more supportive and Burlington PD stronger because of it. With his office located on College Street across from City Hall Park, a location which has seen a troubling increase in crime, Attorney Montroll understands firsthand the vital importance of a well-supported Vermont law enforcement community.

Proud to Sponsor Vermont Craft Open

Celebrating Partnerships, Community, and the Spirit of the Game

UFPO is honored and proud to take part as a sponsor of the Vermont Craft Brewers Golf Tournament on September 19, 2025. This is an event where athletic excellence, camaraderie, and business opportunities flourish amid the beauty of the fairways at Barre Country Club. Our sponsorship reflects our deep appreciation for the game, and our commitment to support both the sport and the communities it unites in the Green Mountain State.

Our sponsorship places our Union front and center, aligned with the prestige and tradition of golf. Whether engaging with seasoned professionals or enthusiastic amateurs, we take pride in seeing our name woven into the fabric of the tournament—on banners, merchandise, digital platforms, and beyond.

We are especially proud to support tournaments that give back—those that raise funds for charities, ALS, local initiatives, scholarships, or shared causes. Sponsoring these events not only strengthens our connection to the communities we represent & protect in Vermont, but also allows us to champion positive changes and demonstrate our union values in action.

For us, golf sponsorship is more than logos and signage; it’s about building relationships. We value the unique networking opportunities this tournament provides, and we are delighted to contribute to an atmosphere where lasting partnerships and collaborations can flourish and help grow our union.

In the ever-evolving landscape of labor relations and legal complexities, Unions are continually faced with complex challenges that necessitate expert guidance. In recognition of the need for enhanced legal counsel, we are proud to announce the hiring of two new law firms, a strategic decision designed to strengthen our legal standing, foster growth, and ensure that our Union will continue to be on the forefront of labor. This partnership marks a significant milestone, underscoring our commitment to excellence for the membership, integrity, and forward-thinking leadership in the Labor Movement.

The newly appointed Massachusetts law firm of Lenow & McCarthy, P.C. and New York’s law firm of Davis & Ferber, LLP, bring a wealth of experience and a dynamic approach to legal counsel. With decades of collective practice across multiple jurisdictions, the firms have garnered a reputation for excellence in litigation, discipline, contract negotiations and labor relations. They have represented unions in all areas of practice and have delivered proven results through meticulous research, creative problem-solving, and unwavering professionalism.

The hiring of the new law firms represents a bold step forward for our organization in growing in Massachusetts and New York. It is a testament to our dedication to legal excellence, ethical leadership, and a proactive labor approach. With the support and expertise of our new legal partners, we are confident that we will navigate the complexities of the legal world with greater assurance, protecting our unions interests and fostering sustainable growth.

We extend our sincere welcome to our new legal partners and look forward to a fruitful collaboration that will drive our union forward and reinforce our standing as a leader in our field.