Union Transparency
Open, honest and accountable leadership with members informed and involved in decisions.
Experienced, honest and transparent leadership focused on representing every member, protecting union resources and building a stronger CUPE Local 905.
Decades of union experience, member advocacy and hands-on leadership across CUPE Local 905.
Firstly, thank you for taking the time to learn about me. My name is Rob Kerfoot. I am an ally, activist, a proud father of a daughter and two sons, with decades of union experience.
Over the last 27 years as a CUPE Local 905 member, I’ve had the privilege to serve as a Steward, Lead Steward, and Unit Chair. During my time in a variety of roles I have been on several committees, completed a large amount of important CUPE trainings and attended a variety of conventions. Through each of these opportunities I continue to educate myself on changing legislation, best practices, inclusivity and the importance of union solidarity. I have had the opportunity to stand with, and fight for, a diverse range of issues that affect each of our CUPE Local 905 members (clerks, librarians, road patrollers, marginalized members, etc.). I am grateful to the membership for their support, trust and patience with me throughout the years. Where I have been nominated for committees, given opportunities to attend conferences and have had the priviledge to be a bargaining committee member for three rounds of bargaining at the City of Markham. I am truly blessed to have had this opportunity, and would not possess the knowledge and leadership skills I have today without each members support.
I currently serve as President of CUPE Local 905 and have held the position for 16 months. During that time, I have focused on providing experienced, honest and transparent leadership, strengthening trust with members, supporting units through significant change, protecting members’ interests and ensuring the Local remains member-driven. I remain committed to building a stronger, more unified CUPE Local 905 and to representing all members with fairness, accountability and integrity.
A stronger union requires open communication, responsible stewardship and representation that puts members first.
Open, honest and accountable leadership with members informed and involved in decisions.
27 years of union knowledge applied to grievances, bargaining, advocacy and day-to-day representation.
Protecting members' dues and ensuring union resources are used responsibly.
A strong ally in your corner, fighting for fairness, respect and every member's voice.
Formal training that supports practical, informed and effective union representation.
This training provided me with the skills to resolve disputes effectively through both informal mediation and formal arbitration processes. The training emphasized conflict resolution strategies, understanding arbitral procedures, and representing members’ interests with fairness and professionalism.
This training built on foundational knowledge to deepen understanding of workplace hazards, accident investigations, and prevention strategies. The training equips participants with practical tools to promote a strong health and safety culture and to actively participate in Joint Health and Safety Committees.
This training provided advanced training on developing and implementing effective return-to-work plans for injured or ill members. It focuses on workers’ rights, accommodation strategies, and collaborative approaches to ensure a safe and timely reintegration into the workplace.
The Duty of Fair Representation requires unions to act fairly, in good faith, and without discrimination when representing all members. This includes handling grievances, negotiating agreements, and ensuring equal treatment under the collective agreement.
This training equipped me with the knowledge and skills to identify, file, and process grievances under the collective agreement. It emphasizes effective investigation, documentation, and representation to ensure fair and timely resolution of workplace issues.
This training me how to assess and classify jobs fairly and accurately using a gender-neutral, point-based system. The training emphasizes collaboration between union and employer representatives to ensure equitable compensation and transparency in job value assessments.
This training provided me with an overview of the legal framework governing unions, collective bargaining, and workers’ rights in Canada. I learnt how to apply key legislation, such as labour codes and human rights laws, to protect and advocate for members effectively.
This training prepared me to effectively present issues and advocate for union positions before councils, boards, and other decision-making bodies. It focused on crafting clear, persuasive messages and building confidence in public speaking to influence policy and workplace outcomes.
This training equipped me with the tools to address and resolve interpersonal disputes between members. The training focuses on active listening, negotiation techniques, and fostering a collaborative environment to maintain unity and resolve conflicts constructively.
This training taught me the rules and guidelines for conducting effective meetings, including motions, voting, and meeting decorum. It ensured I understood how to facilitate orderly and democratic decision-making within union bodies, enhancing participation and transparency.
This training provided me with in-depth knowledge of the Workers' Compensation system, focusing on the rights and responsibilities of injured workers. I learnt how to navigate the complex WSIB process, advocate for fair compensation, and ensure proper support for members throughout their recovery and return to work
Election Day · November 2026
Contact the CampaignExperience across governance, member representation, equity, mobilization and municipal worker advocacy.
The CUPE Bylaw Committee is responsible for reviewing and recommending updates to local union bylaws to ensure they align with the CUPE National Constitution and reflect current practices. This includes annual reviews, incorporating member feedback, and ensuring clear language that protects members' rights and promotes transparent governance.
The CUPE Grievance Committee is responsible for handling and resolving disputes related to violations of the collective agreement, ensuring that members' rights are protected and upheld. The committee processes grievances not settled at the initial stage, determines whether they should proceed to arbitration, and provides reports to the Executive Board, National Representative, and membership meetings.
The CUPE Human Resources Committee supports the union's governance by overseeing HR-related policies and practices, ensuring compliance with employment standards and fostering a fair workplace. It collaborates with management to address staffing issues, develop training programs, and uphold equitable employment practices.
The CUPE LGBTQ2S+ Committee, known as the Pink Triangle Committee, advocates for safer, fairer workplaces for LGBTQ2S+ members through political action and key events. It unites members across CUPE Ontario to promote equity, challenge discrimination, and build inclusive union and community spaces.
The Mobile Action Committee of CUPE Local 905 comprises the Local Vice President and fourteen elected members, aiming for diverse representation across all units. This committee mobilizes members to participate in political and union events, supporting Local 905 initiatives, other CUPE locals, and broader labor-organized activities through actions like information pickets and demonstrations.
The Ontario Municipal Workers Committee of CUPE Ontario advocates for municipal sector workers by addressing issues like privatization, bargaining, and workplace safety. It unites locals across the province to strengthen public services and protect workers’ rights.
I am seeking re-election as President of CUPE Local 905 because I believe strongly in our Local, our members and the strength we have when we stand together.
The past year has brought significant challenges and difficult decisions. We have faced workplace issues, bargaining challenges, financial pressures and changes within our Local. Through all of this, my commitment has remained the same: to put our members first and protect the strength and future of CUPE 905.
Every member deserves strong representation, regardless of their bargaining unit, classification or workplace.
I will continue to fight for members facing discipline, grievances, accommodation issues, health and safety concerns and unfair treatment.
CUPE 905 is made up of many different workplaces and bargaining units, but we share the same fundamental goal: protecting workers and improving their lives.
I will continue working to build cooperation between our units and ensure every member has a voice.
Members deserve to know how their Local is being managed.
I will continue advocating for open communication, responsible financial management and accountability to the membership.
Major decisions affecting our Local must be made with the interests of our members at the forefront.
Our collective agreements are only as strong as our willingness to enforce them.
I will continue to stand up when employers fail to respect our agreements, arbitration awards or members’ rights.
We will continue fighting for fair wages, benefits, safe workplaces and respect on the job.
The future of CUPE 905 depends on developing new leaders.
I want to see more members involved, more stewards trained and more opportunities for members to participate in their union.
Our union should not belong to a handful of people. It belongs to every member.
The challenges ahead will require experienced leadership, financial responsibility, open communication and a willingness to bring people together.
I am asking for your support to continue that work.
What CUPE Local 905 members and leaders have shared about Rob's leadership, support and representation.
Unit Chair · Long Term Care
Since becoming President of CUPE 905, Rob has been a strong advocate and unwavering supporter of our Long-Term Care members. As a new Unit Chair, I have learned a great deal from his guidance, leadership, and willingness to help whenever needed. Rob leads with integrity, listens to members, and is committed to finding solutions through collaboration. I am grateful for his support and proud to endorse him for re-election as President.
CUPE Local 905 Member
I am proud to support our current President as he runs for a second term. Over his first term, I have seen firsthand the dedication and commitment he brings to this position. He genuinely cares about the members he represents, is very transparent and takes his responsibility as President seriously. One of the things I respect most about Rob's leadership is how involved he is at the bargaining table. He doesn't simply leave the work to others—he is there, engaged, listening, advocating, and standing up for the best interest of our members. His presence at the bargaining table demonstrates just how committed he is to making sure our members have a strong voice.
During his first term, Rob has demonstrated what dedicated leadership looks like. He is committed to his position, but more importantly, he is committed to the Members he represents. He takes time to listen, understand member's concerns, and do what he can to help. Leadership is about more than holding a title. It is about showing up, putting in the work, and standing with the people you represent. He has consistently demonstrated that dedication throughout his first term. He has earned my support for another term, and I believe continuing his leadership will be a benefit to our membership. I am proud to stand behind him and support his re-election as our President!
Markham Unit Chair · CUPE Local 905
I am pleased to offer my full endorsement of Rob Kerfoot for the upcoming election. As our Local President, Rob has demonstrated a strong commitment to our members and to the future of our Local. His leadership has been especially important during the difficult period following the separation. Keeping a Local together through a significant change like that takes patience, determination, and a willingness to put the interests of the membership first. Rob has worked hard to maintain unity, strengthen relationships among our members, and ensure that our Local continues to move forward. He has taken on the challenges that came with the separation and continued to stand up for our members, even when the circumstances were difficult. Leadership is not always about having an easy path—it is about staying committed when things get difficult. Rob has shown that commitment. He has put in the work to keep our Local together and has continued to represent our members with dedication and perseverance. I believe Rob has earned the trust and confidence of our membership. His experience, commitment, and hard work make him the right person to continue leading our Local. Rob Kerfoot has my full endorsement, and I strongly encourage our members to support him in the upcoming election.
Unit Chair · Newmarket Public Library
I have been a part of CUPE 905 since December 2023. In my 3 years with the union Rob has been incredibly helpful, supportive and available to me and my unit members. From supporting me as a new unit chair, to making time for calls and emails at all hours Rob was there. Rob’s wealth of knowledge and years of union committee experience have served him well as our union president. The last few years have brought a lot of change to our local and through all of that Rob has been a constant and provided trust and transparency to 905 members and continues the work to strengthen the local.
Markham Municipal - Member · 905.14 & 905.15
I've worked alongside Rob for many years and have seen first hand that he is a dedicated leader who doesn’t just talk about change; he works hard and advocates to make it happen. Whether it's standing up for fair wages, fighting for safer working conditions, or making sure every voice is heard, Rob has consistently put our members first. He’s not in this for recognition—yet is in it to support all members equally.
What sets Rob apart is more than just his dedication, knowledge of contracts, policies, etc. it’s his ability to connect, listen, lead with both strength and empathy. His 27 years of union experience and knowledge speaks for itself making it beneficial to assist our CUPE 905 local members and ensure transparency in leadership, building solidarity, unity, inclusiveness and diversity. This is the kind of leadership we need now more than ever.
Markham Public Library - Member · 905.05
Although I haven’t had the opportunity to work directly with Rob Kerfoot, I’ve seen the positive impact of his leadership throughout CUPE local 905. He has earned a strong reputation for being approachable, dedicated, and deeply committed to protecting the rights of every member—something that doesn’t go unnoticed.
Whether it's through updates, negotiations, or just the way Rob shows up for the entire membership, it's clear that he leads with integrity and purpose.I am confident that Rob will continue to advocate and represent the Library workers.
I believe Rob has the experience, vision, and heart to take on the role of Union President. I support Rob Kerfoot for President of CUPE 905.
Markham Municipal - Lead Steward · 905.14 & 905.15
I have known Rob for 4 years now and I believe I can confidently say that there would be noone more qualified for our CUPE Local 905 President than Rob Kerfoot. Rob has always had our backs—no matter what. As President of CUPE Local 905, he’s been a rock for so many of us, always standing up for what’s right and making sure no one gets left behind. He truly cares about the people he represents, and you can see that in the way he shows up, speaks up, and never stops pushing for fairness and respect for every single member.
One of the things that makes Rob stand out is how easy he is to talk to. He’s always available—literally 24/7—and no matter what you’re going through, he’ll take the time to listen and help you figure it out. Whether it’s about accommodations, return-to-work stuff, a tough grievance, or bargaining for a better deal, Rob’s experience and steady approach make all the difference. He knows his stuff, and more importantly, he never makes you feel like you’re going through it alone.
At the end of the day, Rob’s the real deal. He’s honest, he’s down to earth, and he’s fully committed to making things better for all of us—whether that’s fighting for better wages, stronger benefits, or just making sure we’re seen and appreciated. He’s not in it for the spotlight; he’s in it for us. And we’re lucky to have him leading the way.
Rob thank you for all you do and I believe you as President is our only hope for the new CUPE Local 905!
Markham Municipal - Steward · 905.14 & 905.15
Working alongside Rob Kerfoot has been a privilege and an education in what a strong, principled leadership looks like. As Chair of our union, Rob consistently puts the needs of the members first, navigating challenges with integrity, transparency, and a deep understanding of our rights and responsibilities.
Rob has been a steady hand during negotiations, a strong voice in advocacy, and a constant presence for members facing workplace issues. What sets Rob apart is not just his knowledge, but his willingness to listen—to truly hear what members are experiencing and to act accordingly.
As a steward, I’ve felt supported and empowered because of Rob's leadership. Rob's commitment to unity, fairness, and progress inspires those around him and strengthens our union every day.
It’s not just leadership—it’s leadership that cares, and that makes all the difference.
I fully support and endorse Rob Kerfoot as the next CUPE 905 President!
Markham Municipal - Member · 905.14 & 905.15
Rob kerfoot is the best man for the job! As a newer member of the union I am proud to indorse him and lend my voice to the overwhelming support he is already receiving.
As a new steward Rob has been an amazing help to me in getting myself established. Always ready to answer questions and make time for you, Rob has consistently helped me grow as a member of this union and understand my role within it. With his years of experience in every part of the union and it's different departments, with his integrity, grit and good sense of justice, Rob is the best pick to be the one to fight for you and our fellow union members.
As we enter a interesting time in our lives and facing an uncertain future I can think of no better person to lead us in the fight for better working conditions and proper pay.
I fully indorse Rob Kerfoot for president and I can't wait to see what good he will be able to do in the position.
Markham Municipal - Member · 905.14 & 905.15
I would like to endorse Rob Kerfoot for CUPE 905 President.
As a fellow unionist, I have had the privilege of working alongside Rob and have witnessed his dedication, integrity, and exceptional leadership skills firsthand.
Rob has consistently demonstrated a commitment to fair representation for all members of our union. He is not only a tireless advocate for the rights and needs of our members, but he also excels at promoting an inclusive environment where each voice is heard and valued. His ability to listen and respond to the diverse concerns of our members sets him apart as a true leader.
One of Rob’s best qualities is his unwavering presence for our members. Whether it’s during negotiations, addressing grievances, or simply offering support during covid, Rob is always there to lend a helping hand.
Rob exemplifies the ability to keep personal beliefs and opinions separate from his role within the union. This skill is crucial, as it enables him to advocate effectively for all members, regardless of differing viewpoints. His instills trust among members and strengthens the unity of our union, ensuring that all members feel represented and respected.
Rob’s achievements in our local union are commendable, and his passion for advocating for workers rights is evident in everything he does. I am confident that he would excel in any role that involves leadership and representation, and I believe he would be an invaluable asset at the local level.
Im certain that he will bring the same level of dedication and excellence to the role as president that he has shown throughout his tenure with CUPE 905.14 & 905.15 and fellow members everywhere.
Thank you for everything you do rob.