Longshoremen authorize strike at local port amid negotiations

4/22/2013

Midwest Terminals of Toledo International, which operates the Port of Toledo’s general cargo facility, said Sunday it had learned that members of International Longshoremen’s Association Local 1982 had authorized their union on Saturday night to call for a strike.

The local represents about 45 workers who load and unload cargo on the northwest side of St. Lawrence Drive at the general cargo facility.

Alex Johnson, Midwest Terminals president and chief executive officer, said in a prepared statement the operator is working with Local 1982’s leadership on a plan to help modernize the facility and provide more safety as workers are trained to handle larger and more complex equipment.

Midwest Terminals says it believes a more efficient operation will increase business and result in more jobs.

The company plans to keep talking with Local 1982 leadership about more competitive wages and health benefits, Mr. Johnson said.

The vote gave Local 1982 leadership authorization to call for a strike if they deemed it necessary.