Joe LaPaglia

Joe was hired by Local One in February 1993 as a Membership Servicing Representative (MSR). A key part of his role included spending time each week in workplace breakrooms speaking directly with members, answering questions, and maintaining accurate membership records.

In 1999, Joe was promoted to Union Representative. He initially serviced the Erie, PA territory before being assigned to multiple regions across New York State, from the Adirondacks to the Southern Tier.

Joe has also worked as a Union Organizer on several major campaigns, including Wake Up Walmart and the Price Chopper Warehouse campaign in Albany. In addition, Local One was occasionally called upon to assist UFCW sister locals. In 1998, Joe was assigned to an eight-week campaign in Los Angeles opposing Proposition 226, which would have required employers and labor unions to obtain annual written consent before deducting wages or union dues for political purposes. The proposition was widely viewed as an attempt to silence workers’ voices.

Currently serving as Servicing Director, Joe negotiates numerous Collective Bargaining Agreements, always keeping the interests of union members at the forefront across every industry represented by UFCW. He also oversees the servicing department and supports all Union Representatives in their roles.

Joe has served on the Syracuse, Albany, and Utica Labor Councils. Outside of work, he enjoys coaching baseball, is a devoted New York Yankees fan, and takes great pride in watching his youngest son, Vincenzo, play youth hockey.

Joe resides in Utica with his wife, Nicole, and their son Vincenzo. His oldest son, Joseph, is a graduate of the University at Buffalo and currently works as an engineer at Micron.

Joe has served on the CNY Labor Council for many years and has participated on the COPE Committee for more than 15 years. In 2025, he was elected CNY Labor Council President.