Talks resume between Manitowoc Co., strikers

MANITOWOC, Wis. — Talks between the Manitowoc Co. and its striking union have resumed with a federal mediator.

Machinists began a strike two months ago. They say the company is attempting to weaken the union with a provision that allows machinists to opt out of membership. Manitowoc Co. says it’s a “freedom of choice” proposal. The company says it would still recognize the union as the exclusive bargaining representative for the machinists.

The Journal Sentinel reports some union members say they expect to vote on another proposed contract as early as this weekend. About 200 members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers Local 516 walked off the job in November after rejecting the company’s proposed contract. The company has brought in replacement workers.