Over 1500 members cast ballots in Local 70's election for officers and officials. Votes were counted in early December after a month of spirited campaigning and produced at least one surprise. Odus Hall lost in his effort for re-election. Hall had served as Business Agent for six years. He came in last in the seven person race.

Bob Aiello driver/shop steward at Albertson's won a Business Agent spot. Elected as Business Agents along with Aiello were incumbents Dominic Chiovare, Marty Frates, Bob Bell, and Larry Dias. Lou Marchetti who served as Recording-Secretary and Dispatcher the past three years also won a Business Agent position.

Chiovare was the races top vote getter. He had 1044 votes. Frates was a close second with 1023 votes.

The most competitive race was Recording-Secretary where Rob Dias Chief Steward at Waste Management nudged Felix Martinez Chief Steward at Coke by 16 votes (720 / 704). Both candidates campaigned long, hard and well. Vice President Milton Lewis (UPS) fended off a challenge by Johnnie Albanese of Roadway without much trouble, and incumbent Trustees Larry Aiello (Horizon Lines), Tim Mosier (UPS) and Emil Radloff (Hall) beat back challengers Rich Fierro (Albertson's), Jerry McCoy (UPS) and Walter Felis (Waste Management).

President Joe Silva and Secretary-Treasurer Chuck Mack were unopposed.

Local 70 elections are held every three years. The new term of office will begin January 1, 2005 and run till December 31, 2007 .