Union Protestors Head To School
The IUOE Local 150 is protesting at the Washington STEM academy construction site. (Photos by Amanda McFarland)
“Scabby” the inflatable rat mascot stands next to the construction zone.
WARSAW — “Scabby” the inflatable rat is going to school, but not to learn the three Rs.
The now-familiar mascot of the Union of Operating Engineers Local 150 has been spotted outside the Washington STEM academy construction site in protest of G&G Hauling and Excavating Inc.’s use of MacAllister Machinery Company Inc. as a contractor.
Warsaw Community Schools Superintendent Dr. David Hoffert issued a statement earlier today, Wednesday, Aug. 3.
“WCS and design-build contractor Performance Services are currently utilizing hundreds of workers between all of our sites. These workers are a combination of local, regional, unionized and independent individuals,” Hoffert said. “The building projects have positively impacted our local economy through the purchase of local products and employment of laborers.”
Hoffert praised the work G&G has done for the project.
“We have been extremely pleased by the workforce and the pride they have displayed in getting these world-class, educational environments ready for the start of school,” he said. “Local company G&G Hauling has been a strong partner in our construction process. Their knowledge of the land and commitment to quality has saved our schools thousands of dollars. We are proud of the work they, and all our contractors are completing on behalf of our schools and community.”
Hoffert went on to say neighbors had called local law enforcement out of concern that “Scabby” and protestors’ vehicles were creating a visual obstruction. The rat was initially removed, but re-inflated this morning.
“Safety and security has to be ensured at the entrances to our schools and facilities,” Hoffert said. “The location of their setup has incurred two accidents in recent days. With multiple patrons entering our schools in preparation of the year, we hold major concerns for the safety impeded by the blockage of site. WCS respects the right to protest in a safe and orderly manner under the First Amendment of the constitution.”
At the time of publication, Ink Free News had not yet heard from the IUOE Local 150.
