UAW Local 2192 Urges Lorain County to Resolve Strike Amidst Service Crisis

The ongoing strike by UAW Local 2192 members at Lorain County Jobs and Family Services has reached a critical juncture as members intensify their demands for resolution. The labor dispute, which began over a month ago, stems from the County Commissioners' decision to reject a neutral fact-finder’s report and their subsequent refusal to engage in negotiations, actions deemed illegal and detrimental to essential public services.

A key meeting is set for March 25, where workers and County Commissioners will engage in state-mandated mediation. This session follows the unfair labor practice charges filed by the union due to the Commissioners' refusal to negotiate. Ohio state law mandates both parties to negotiate in good faith to ensure public services continue for residents, a principle the union has consistently advocated for amidst ongoing resistance from the County.

In preparation for the mediation, workers plan to attend the County Commissioners’ Board meeting on March 24, continuing a series of actions that have been ongoing since the strike's inception on February 18.

"We are entering March 25’s mediation with one goal: to get back to the table for the residents that rely on our vital services," stated Gina Jones, Chairperson for UAW Local 2192. "This is an opportunity for the County Commission to settle this crisis. JFS workers want to be back at work serving the people of Lorain County, but they can’t do that if they can’t even afford to feed their own families. All we’re asking for is $1.00 per hour raises."

Since the strike began, 120 JFS workers, responsible for crucial tasks such as elder abuse investigations and Medicaid support, have consistently picketed the JFS and County Administration buildings. Despite their efforts, Commissioners have publicly refused to re-enter negotiations, prompting workers to persistently voice their concerns at County Board meetings.

Unfair Labor Practice (ULP) charges were lodged by JFS workers on February 24 due to the County's failure to negotiate in good faith. The workers’ primary demand is a $1.00 per hour wage increase, a modest adjustment aimed at aligning their salaries with those of similar roles in other Ohio counties. This adjustment would cost $290,000, significantly less than the resources allocated to numerous new administrative roles over the past five years, which have put a strain on the County’s General Revenue Fund.

The situation poses a dual threat of workforce and public service crises. Average salaries for Lorain JFS employees lag behind those in nearly all other Ohio counties. This, coupled with a 50% hike in healthcare costs, has led to a high turnover rate, with 90 of the 140 positions experiencing employee exits over the last five years.

The County's past decisions have also sparked controversy, including a near-repossession of police vehicles and claims of retaliation against the County Auditor for rejecting unlawful requests. These actions have drawn widespread criticism from community organizations, local citizens, and media outlets, especially as the Commissioners push forward with an unpopular "megasite" development project.

In contrast to their stance on JFS workers’ demands, the County has expanded its six-figure management roles by 142%, increasing from 65 to 157 positions. As Commissioners resist efforts to rectify staffing shortfalls and high turnover at JFS, they continue to bolster the ranks of high-paid administrative staff.