IAM District 9, Local 313 in Caseyville, IL ended a month long strike against six Illinois auto dealers by ratifying a new 3-year labor agreement. The new agreement includes wage increases in each year of the contract, Union benefits and pension, and a forty hour guarantee. The main sticking point was the employee cost of health insurance which was resolved with the help of a federal mediator.
District 9 Business Representative Dave Weaver said, "I feel like, for the times we are in, the dealers gave us an equitable agreement. Our members are aware that dealers are experiencing tough times and need to keep costs under control."
The strike began on August 1, 2008 after talks broke down between workers from Machinists District 9, Local 313 and the dealers who are part of the St. Clair-Madison Automobile Dealers Association.
About 80 automotive technicians and service writers were on strike over job security, wages and benefits. Weaver proudly said, "This group stood strong and we were able to bring back a contract worthy of ratification."
