EVANSVILLE, IN (WFIE) -
There's a non-binding resolution to get Allied Waste Employees back to work.
Evansville City Council passed the resolution asking Allied to let the employees return to work while contract negotiations continue. The main sticking point is employee retirement plans.
It's been almost two weeks the 79 employees have been locked out. Still, some sit outside the company's gate.
"The lockout takes a machete to something that is more appropriate with a scalpel," said Councilwoman Stephanie Brinkerhoff-Riley.
The lockout was the main discussion at Monday's City Council meeting. Members say they have no opinions on who is right and who is wrong, but some say they don't think the lockout is necessary.
"When 79 workers, 79 families are in economic crisis, this community must deal with it. The community has to pick up the pieces to provide the support these employees need," said Brinkerhoff-Riley.
Others warned council members not to get involved, including a representative from Allied Waste.
"The city council should not be involved in labor relationships between Allied and the local union," said representative from Allied.
"I believe if you pass this resolution, you are getting involved and I don't think that's the thing to do," said former businessman, Wayne Parke.
Council member Dan McGinn agreed.
"I chose not to get involved in a private matter," said McGinn.
In the end, the resolution passed with a 6 to 1 vote.
"Even though this is a private company, they're contracted to do the City's work, and we pass that on in our water bills and refuse bills, so we do have an obligation here," said Council Member Conor O'Daniel.
"These are good employees, have do a great job, everybody wants them back at work," said Brinkerhoff-Riley.
This is a non-binding resolution meaning it can't force the company to do anything.
Allied's General Manager says the local union and Allied Waste did meet for about four hours on Monday. He says they worked out a few small issues. They hope for a vote soon, but they did tentatively set a next meeting for June 4.
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