Talks that began in October 2003 were stalled after the 70 workers represented by Library Union Local 3350 opposed proposed wage increases tied to the passage of a library referendum, increased health-care insurance contributions, and the outsourcing of custodial work that would result in the layoff of six employees.
Union representative Jay Ferraro said in the May 24 Rockford Register Star that the library system is “basically saying 'This is our last offer, we’re going to implement it.’ That’s refusing to bargain.”
Library board attorney Henry Close told the Register Star that the system suffers from less state support as well as rising costs that exceed the cap on property taxes. “When you put all that together, the library needs help in terms of getting its operating expenses in order,” he said. “The library has made a proposal to the union that provides up to a 3% increase for the employees on a yearly basis.”
Ferraro said a date for an actual strike “depends on them.”
Posted May 28, 2004.