James Declares He'll Run For CCA President

By REUVEN BLAU

Veteran Correction Capt. Keith James has announced his candidacy for the Correction Captains' Association's top post.

The Chief-Leader/Alana Marcu KEITH JAMES: Out to 'restore respect.'

Captain James, who has been a union delegate since 1998 and currently works in the department's Health Management Division, was critical of the current administration, led by longtime President Peter D. Meringolo. Mr. James said he's running to "restore respect, regain rank authority and lost salaries, vacation, and other givebacks."

He added: "I want to be a presence that listens to members and to come up with innovative plans that address the issues."

Disgruntled Ex-Ally?

Mr. Meringolo strenuously defended his record, and contended that Mr. James only decided to run after he wasn't chosen for two open board positions in the union. "He's been on my team for eight years," he noted. "He's voted for everything we've done."

Sources have said that Mr. Meringolo is seriously considering retiring in December. "I contemplate retirement every day of my life, but I haven't made that decision yet," he said. In 2002, he was overwhelmingly elected by over 90 percent of the union's 880 members.

Nominations for the CCA's elections are scheduled for April and the election is set for June.