Tony Arguelles
Labor Representative
Tony Arguelles is a dedicated full-time labor representative at Goyette, Ruano & Thompson, providing comprehensive support for labor matters throughout northern California, primarily in Stanislaus County. His focus is on representing law enforcement and public sector employees, ensuring their rights and interests are protected in the course of their employment.
PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND
Tony’s professional journey is marked by a rich tapestry of experiences. A distinguished United States Army combat veteran, he brings over 25 years of invaluable law enforcement experience to his role. As a retired Police Detective with the City of Modesto Police Department, Tony served with distinction, culminating in his position as the first behavioral threat assessment Detective assigned to the Office of the Chief of Police.
During his tenure, Tony demonstrated exceptional leadership as the President of the Modesto Police Officers’ Association for 12 years. In this role, he skillfully navigated labor relations, negotiating contracts, overseeing political action initiatives, and providing representation under the Police Officer Bill of Rights (POBR). His impact extended to the application of AB 340 (PEPRA – Public Employees’ Pension Reform Act) within the city of Modesto for its unified employees.
Tony’s diverse law enforcement experience encompasses roles with the Stanislaus County Drug Enforcement Agency (SCDEA), where he worked in narcotics manufacturing and trafficking investigations, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation Gang Impact Task Force (GIT), where he engaged in behavioral threat assessment, hostage negotiations, and organized crime/gang investigations.
LABOR REPRESENTATION EXPERTISE
Tony’s unique life experiences and extensive training have equipped him with a broad perspective, enabling effective representation of clients in all labor matters. His communicative skills, honed through years of service, contribute to positive outcomes when dealing with organizational administrations at any level. Tony has demonstrated exceptional negotiation skills, successfully navigating challenging economic periods such as the 2008 recession and the 2020 COVID pandemic.
Tony has led negotiation teams, securing successful labor contracts even during financially turbulent times. He is well-versed in various negotiation approaches, including Interest Based Negotiations (IBN). His combined formal education and life experiences, both within and outside the law enforcement field, have resulted in numerous successful contract agreements and membership ratifications.
PERSONAL LIFE
Outside of his professional commitments, Tony finds joy in his family life. He is a devoted husband of 37 years to Clara and a proud father of two, Christina and Tony III. His love for family extends to enjoyable camping and travel experiences with his wife, children, and grandson.
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
Beyond his professional endeavors, Tony is actively engaged in the community. He is an Associate Master Mason at Smyrna Lodge No. 532 and Modesto Lodge No. 206, both belonging to the Masons of California. Additionally, he holds the title of 32 Degree Scottish Rite Mason in the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry. His commitment to community service is further demonstrated by his membership in the 82d Airborne Division Association.