Last week, the Teamsters Local 727 bargaining committee sent in email to Brookfield Zoo Chicago management asking for the parties to allow all Teamsters Local 727 members employed by Brookfield Zoo Chicago to attend negotiations (if they so wish) virtually, via Zoom. Teamsters Local 727 not only said they would take full responsibility for setting up and managing the Zoom but also would make it “view” only and intended it to be password protected. As you know, the Zoo rejected the Union’s request.
Instead, they sent out an unlawful and largely factually inaccurate bargaining update directly to members that was clearly written to threaten and intimidate members. Furthermore, the Zoo’s communication was written by CEO and President Dr. Mike who did not sit in negotiations. To try to stop further miscommunication and false information from being spread, Teamsters Local 727 Secretary-Treasurer sent Dr. Mike a letter (found here) electronically asking for him to attend negotiations today and Wednesday. At the time of this story being published, Dr. Mike has not responded to the email.
When the Union’s President and Business Manager asked Nichole Gladney in an email if Dr. Mike would be attending, she said he would not. As always, the Zoo says that they are committed to “productive conversations” and reaching a deal, but their actions never match their words.
Teamsters Local 727 will update members as negotiations progress.
Members with questions regarding the union contract or bargaining process should contact Business Agent Sean McGough at [email protected] or (847) 696-7500.
Nothing in this article should be read as the union’s waiver of any legal argument, position or grievance(s), or as a waiver of any rights, arguments, or defenses under any contract, collective bargaining agreement, or applicable law. The union does not forfeit its right to make any and all supplemental arguments.