Union workers to vote on proposed labor contract at Constellium - WOWK 13 Charleston, Huntington WV News, Weather, Sports

Union workers to vote on proposed labor contract at Constellium in Jackson County

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After what many employees call a long, hard-fought battle, the voting process is set to begin Thursday for a new labor contract at Contellium Rolled Products in Jackson County.

The old contract expired a few days ago, and now, employees will vote on the new health benefits proposal -- a proposal some say is just not good enough.

Constellium officials say their offer is as good as it gets in this economy.

Union employees will either accept or reject what the company is calling its last, best and final offer for union members.   

"It's the same old story with this place," retiree Ron Floyd said. "They never tell the truth."

Floyd said he's worried his benefits will completely disappear. 

While they wouldn't go on camera, company officials claimed in a news release that Constellium has suffered significant financial losses in recent years, and they believe this latest offer is very reasonable. 

The mayor of Ravenswood said he understands both sides of the argument.

"On one hand, our workers and our local people need to be fairly compensated for what they're doing for their work, and share in the success that their company has had," Michael Ihle said. "On the flip side, it's important that the deal be competitive for Constellium so they can keep their costs down and remain competitive so our people can keep job security." 

On their website, members of the United Steelworkers Local 5668 state they are asking for no change to their current benefits.

Constellium officials say their offer includes wage increases, a ratification bonus and other economic enhancements.

The voting is set to end late Friday night, union officials said.