Brookfield Zoo workers authorize strike amid failed union contract negotiations

More than 200 workers at Brookfield Zoo could go on strike later this week.

Workers voted Tuesday to authorize a strike after rejecting the zoo’s “last, best and final offer.” Negotiations continue Friday morning, but if no agreement is reached, the strike could start as soon as the current contract with the zoo expires: 11:59 p.m. Friday.

Animal care specialists, groundskeepers, patrol officers, seasonal workers, aides and custodians represented by Teamsters 727 have been bargaining for a new contract since February, seeking higher pay and staffing guarantees.

The zoo is offering its unionized staff a 3.7% raise over the life of the bargaining agreement, but CEO Mike Adkesson "has received an over 70 percent increase to his compensation," John Coli Jr., Secretary-Treasurer of Local 727 said in a statement. “Adding insult to injury, the Zoo’s last, best, and final proposal includes elimination of the 100 percent employer paid Union healthcare, something these members have earned and relied upon for decades.”

The zoo issued a statement saying officials were disappointed in the outcome of the strike vote, adding that a strike is neither “necessary nor inevitable.”

“We deeply value every member of our team and the important work they do each day to care for animals, serve guests, and support our mission,” Adkesson's statement continued. “We believe a strike is unnecessary and avoidable, and we remain committed to reaching a fair agreement that supports our employees while protecting the long-term strength and financial sustainability of the Zoo.”

Zoo officials said in the event of a strike, it will continue normal operations and have contingency plans to keep the zoo open to the public and ensure uninterrupted animal care in the event of a strike.

The zoo said it was offering workers a 14.5% wage increase over four years — and zoo employees' wages remained in the top 25%, or higher, among institutions across the nation accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.

The zoo also claimed the Teamsters’ most recent proposal would require about $16 million in additional labor expenses over the four-year contract and force the zoo to consider significant price increases for admission and membership.