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ST. LOUIS - Boeing has reportedly rejected a counteroffer made by union members just days after presenting its latest labor contract proposal. So a nearly-three month strike in the St. Louis region will carry on. More than 3,200 St. Louis-area Boeing workers have been on strike since Aug. 4, clashing with the company over wages, bonuses and retirement benefits. On Monday, the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers 837 (IAM 837) made a counter offer to Boeing's latest five-year offer. One day earlier, the union rejected a deal that featured a 24% wage increases, a $4,000 ratification bonus, and $3,000 in restricted stock units that would vest over three years. On Tuesday, FOX 2 learned that IAM 837 shared the following message on the counteroffer to union members: “The company rejected our counteroffer and said they'll only accept a deal within their "parameters." Our members have rejected four offers within the company's parameters. We've bargained in good faith and were the last to move. The company owes us a counter, not more delays. Your bargaining committee will consider a company counter that moves us toward a fair deal." FOX 2 has reached out to Boeing officials for comment, but have not yet head back as of this story's publication. Boeing claimed the union rejected its latest contract offer by a narrow margin—51% to 49%. However, union members who spoke with FOX 2 after the vote said the offer still fell short of contracts reached at other Boeing sites around the country, with St. Louis workers arguing the contract had become more demanding, with fewer improvements to benefits and retirement plans. The union’s counteroffer called for a four-year contract instead of a five-year deal, asking for a $10,000 ratification bonus, with $5,000 up front and the other $5,000 paid in year three. The union also backed off its 8% 401(k) match demand. That had been a sticking point for some union members as Boeing ended its pension plan. The striking workers are responsible for building and modifying advanced military aircraft, including the F-15 and F/A-18, which are essential to U.S. national security.
