Steelworkers approve new five-year deal with Titan in Des Moines

DES MOINES, Iowa (Sept. 27)—Members of United Steelworkers Local 164 overwhelmingly ratified a new contract with Titan International Inc. Sept. 26, ending the longest strike in tire and rubber industry history. The agreement, approved by a 363-105 vote, will be effective retroactive to Aug. 1 and run through Dec. 15, 2006. Highlights include wage increases of $2.80 over the life of the contract; the installation of a defined benefit pension plan; full seniority rights for returning strikers; and reductions in mandatory overtime. The pact allows for eligible Local 164 members to return to work at Titan's Des Moines farm tire plant within 60 days of ratification if work is available. The local's 670 members struck on May 1, 1998. Another Titan local may also have a new contract the week of Oct. 1; USWA Local 303 in Natchez, Miss., votes on a deal similar to the one in Des Moines on Oct. 2.