McCormick Place Update: MPEA and Labor Unions
Reach Agreement to Finalize Work Rule Reforms
Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority (MPEA) and the labor organizations that represent the McCormick Place workforce have reached settlement on the lawsuit challenging the MPEA's authority to implement work rule reforms outlined in the May 2010 legislation package.
The Chicago Regional Council of Carpenters and the International Association of Teamsters, Local 727 have joined the MPEA in asking the federal court to dismiss the lawsuit filed earlier this year.
The following reforms are now finalized and have been implemented on the show floor: (effective 11/1/11)
- The Exhibitors' Bill of Rights allows show managers and exhibitors to perform their own work in any size booth, using their own ladders or hand tools, cordless tools, power tools and other tools designated by the Authority.
- Key Expanded Straight-time (Monday – Friday) is restored and additionally provisions roll back double-time pay for the following holidays (Columbus, Day, Veteran's Day, Martin Luther King, Jr., Day and President’s Day) and a more flexible schedule on Saturdays.
- Auto Small Utility Vehicles (ASUV) a.k.a. POV – Provision allows exhibitors to operate, load and unload their own personal vehicles at McCormick Place docks and designated loading areas.
- Crew size reductions will allow work at McCormick Place to be done by 2-person crews rather than the 3-person crews.
Other reforms that remain intact at McCormick Place are:
- Privatization of McCormick Place operations
- Expansion of the Hyatt Regency McCormick Place hotel
- Ability for show organizers to select electrical providers from an approved vendors list.
- Lower food and beverage pricing and enhance menu options.
- Reduced parking rate in Lot B.
- Free Wi-Fi internet access.