Ingredion strike goes on longer than earlier record

CEDAR RAPIDS — As the Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers International Union Local 100G strike against Cedar Rapids’ Ingredion nears the three-month mark, it remains unclear when the two sides may be able to reach an agreement that would send union members back to work.

The strike, which began Aug. 1, entered its 79th day Tuesday, surpassing the local’s previous strike record of 78 days, set in 2004. Mike Moore, the local’s principal officer and president, said the union is committed to the picket line.

A meeting last month between company and union representatives ended when they were asked to leave The Hotel at Kirkwood Center after tempers flared. The union said the argument was sparked by Ingredion officials’ decision to bring armed security officers with them.

Since then, the two sides have met just once — virtually, on Oct. 4. Moore said Ingredion presented a revised contract proposal. In addition to the five union positions the company proposed to eliminate this summer, Moore said, it now is suggesting an additional 16 positions be cut.

In an email to The Gazette, Ingredion Corporate Communications Director Becca Hary confirmed that the company presented a new proposal to the union. She did not comment, however, on its specifics.

“Our proposal includes investment and the creation of new highly skilled roles that offer additional opportunities for advancement and meaningful hourly wages increases.”

She said the company “remains committed to reaching an agreement that provides very competitive wages, comprehensive benefits and enhanced conditions” for the people who work at the facility.

All 116 Cedar Rapids-based members of the union voted to turn down the contract in August. They took issue with the elimination of positions, a redistribution of overtime and changes to insurance that included higher deductibles and out-of-pocket costs.

Moore said union representatives are willing to meet with Ingredion officials but they want it to be in person.

Hary said the virtual meeting was schedule to accommodate Ingredion officials from different locations. She said the company is willing to meet in person.

“We stand ready to continue in-person negotiations with the union at mutually agreed upon locations that are safe and free from unnecessary distractions. Our top priority is reaching an agreement that is fair to both sides as soon as possible — so that together, we can continue to build on the facility’s proud history as a vital part of the community.”

The Cedar Rapids City Council, in a guest column published Sept. 15 in The Gazette, urged union representatives and Ingredion management to “bargain in good faith” and “to do what is in the best interest of our community and that is, to get back to work.”

Comments: (319) 398-8465; sara.baranowski@thegazette.com