This morning, as many across our community prepared for temperatures possibly reaching over 100 degrees today, workers at Monument Chemical, just outside Brandenburg, braced for something quite different on the eve of the Fourth of July holiday. Contract negotiations between the company and two of its unions, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 369 and United Association (UA) Local 502, had reached an impasse. At 8 a.m. on July 3, the two unions prepared to picket, as they began the first strike at the chemical plant since 1977.
In a joint statement, the two unions said, "UA Local 502 and IBEW Local 369 have gone on strike due to critical issues affecting our members' livelihoods: Our strike is about securing affordable healthcare and protecting against the adverse effects of subcontracting. We call on our employer Monument Chemical to negotiate reasonably and address these pressing concerns. This is about the rising costs of health care, the degradation of
our skilled workforce, and providing a sustainable future for our workers."
In regard to the healthcare costs, the unions said, "Skyrocketing healthcare costs are placing an enormous financial burden on our workers. Many are struggling to afford necessary medical care and insurance. The union offered their own plan that was rejected. This plan would have saved the company money while providing cheaper and better insurance for the whole workforce including all employees employed by Monument."
Another sticking point is the issue of subcontracting, which they said, "The practice of subcontracting undermines job security and fair compensation. Subcontracted workers are being used to erode our local unionized workforce in Brandenburg. We stand against this unfair practice to protect job security, safety and ensure that all workers are fairly treated and compensated."
"The rising cost of living and inflation have significantly outpaced our wages. To address healthcare costs and the negative impacts of subcontracting, our wages need to be adjusted. This is not just about higher pay; it’s about ensuring our members can afford healthcare and maintain job security," they concluded. "We appreciate the public's support as we fight for our members' rights and well-being and the safety of our community."
Wendell Borges, Site Leader for Monument Chemical, replied with a statement on behalf of the company.
"At Monument Chemical, one of our goals is to be a good partner to our employees, our community, and our customers. This includes our commitment to the collective bargaining process. Unfortunately, as of July 3, 2024, the Monument Brandenburg Maintenance unions have chosen to go on strike," Borges said. "At this time, negotiations between our organization and the unions are at an impasse. The plant is operating at full capacity, and we are meeting customer obligations. We look forward to the resolution of these contracts."
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