The construction company building the new Homer City Generation Power plant has issued a response to a walkout that happened last Friday at the site.
WTAE-TV reported that the walkout was prompted by a meeting between company officials and Operating Engineers Local 66 about changes to workers’ schedules including a reduction of hours and pay. On Tuesday, workers returned after solutions were presented, but night-shift operator and steward Misael Vazquez claimed that he was fired as others were allowed to get back to work.
Kiewit would not speak on any personnel matters, but their vice president of Corporate Communication Bob Kula did talk about the working relationship they have with all the unions involved.
The company added that they remain in close contact with the Operating Engineers Local 66 members and leadership as they continue their work.
Shawn Steffee with the Boilermakers Local said that the walkout was done by “a few rogue members” of the Operating Engineers union. He says there is no labor dispute with the unions and Kiewit and they look forward to completing the work on the power plant and hopefully the data centers in the future.
Here is the complete statement from Kiewit Vice President of Corporate Communication Bob Kula:
Kiewit Power Constructors Co. does not comment on personnel matters. We have great working relationships and open lines of communication with Operating Engineers Local 66 and the other unions involved in the construction of the Homer City Redevelopment Project. Regarding your inquiry, we remain in close contact with the Local 66 workers and union leadership, especially as they continue to perform important work on this job. We value and appreciate all of our strong labor partners.
