A Body Blow to a Faltering Local Economy
These are worrying economic times for all of us. Now more then ever, we need responsible economic leadership in Muscatine, not irresponsible outsourcing and job cuts. We need a strong local economy built upon a solid foundation of middle class jobs, not companies seeking to pay the lowest possible wage. Unfortunately, GPC seems to have forgotten its Muscatine roots, and is focused on making a buck – no matter the cost to the town that made your company succeed.
When GPC locked out more than 300 union Muscatine workers, rather than allowing them to continue to work during contract negotiations – they dealt a body blow to a faltering local economy. Whatever their motivation, there is no reason to not allow these employees to continue to work while GPC settles its differences with the union local at the negotiating table.
In addition, we never expected negotiations with GPC to fall apart over the issue of outsourcing and job security. We had believed that GPC was committed to Muscatine, and being an integral part of the community. Instead of maintaining that commitment, GPC is fighting for the right to outsource and lay off without warning or recourse. We can’t help but wonder – what’s next for Muscatine if GPC gets their way? When do they plan on using these new rights?
The Iowa way has always been strong companies built on loyal, local workers. GPC’s workers have been loyal to their company for years and years – locked out workers average close to twenty years of service. GPC should be loyal to Muscatine and sign a contract with UFCW Local 86D that ensures a prosperous future for the whole community.
It’s time for GPC to put Muscatine first. Join us by signing our letter to GPC CEO Gage Kent to put his priorities straight and join us in standing up for a better Muscatine.
William Poggemiller
President, UFCW Local 86D
