Buick union, Local 599, was once the largest union chapter in the entire world. Local 599 was founded in 1939, and its membership peaked in the 1960s with around 28,000 members. That number is about to fall to zero, though.
MLive reports Local 599 will be absorbed by Local 659 in a deal that has already been inked.
“Basically, all we know is that we’re going to gain about 450 employees,” said Gruener. “We don’t have a whole lot of information,” said Local 659 Vice President Steve Gruener.
Local 599 has declined to comment on the matter.
As it stands Local 599 houses 9,000 retirees, and it is unclear which will be servicing those workers. As to why the merger is taking place, it is also unknown.
“All indications say that management was pushing for it,” Gruener said. “I’m happy and sad on both points. I’m happy we’re gaining members, but I’m sad that were losing a local that dates back to 1939.”
Local 599 represents workers on the south side of General Motors’ Flint Engine Plant, while Local 659 represents the north side. Powertrain Flint North was the last piece of the massive Buick assembly compound, employing 29,400 people, which closed its doors in 2010.
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