After an overwhelming strike vote by IAM members at L-3 Vertex in Meridian, MS, and Kingsville, TX. Representatives for L-3 made a revised offer that was voted and approved by a large margin, averting a work stoppage.
The absence of caps in employee health care contributions was a major stumbling block in the original offer from L-3. Annual raises of 3.5 percent in each year of the three-year pact remained the same, but health care premiums for members were capped in the new offer. In addition to the caps, company contributions to the IAM Pension were increased from .85 cents to $1.50 over the term of the agreement and time required to gain additional vacation benefits was lowered.
“We’re happy a new offer was made,” said Aerospace Coordinator Frank Santos. “We know how important our mission was, and it was imperative we settle the problems without a work stoppage. I believe all sides, our members, the Navy and L-3 walked away winners. We couldn’t have done it without strong leadership from District 776 Business Rep Jody Bennett, who led the negotiations, District 73 Business Rep Joe Harrington and the union’s coordinated bargaining committees from Meridian and Kingsville.”
The IAM represents a combined membership of about 550 maintenance and support employees at Naval Air Stations (NAS) in Meridian, MS and Kingsville, TX.
The membership operates training and support programs for the Navy’s T-45, a two-seat carrier-capable training aircraft. Last December, the IAM reached agreement with L-3 at the NAS Pensacola, FL, facility, which also supports the T-45 program.
L-3 Vertex is a division of L-3 Communications, one of the nation’s largest Defense Department contractors.
“The IAM’s experience and expertise in negotiating contracts under the Service Contract Act paid off again with a strong agreement for the members in Meridian and Kingsville,” said Southern Territory GVP Bob Martinez. “I want to extend my thanks and congratulations to everyone for a job well done.”
