The Lake County Council passed a resolution Tuesday in support of approximately 800 BP union workers locked out of the Whiting Refinery since March 19, urging the energy company to end the lockout and resume negotiations.

The resolution, passed in a 6-0 vote, calls on BP to immediately end the lockout of United Steelworkers Local 7-1 members and work toward a fair agreement that protects local jobs, respects workers’ rights, and supports the long-term safety and stability of the refinery and surrounding communities. The resolution will be sent to BP, the union, and state and federal elected officials representing Northwest Indiana.

The lockout has placed significant financial and emotional strain on working families, local businesses, schools, and municipal economies throughout Northwest Indiana, according to the resolution. The council’s action cited concerns about health and safety risks created by operating the refinery with replacement workers instead of trained, experienced local personnel.

BP spokesman Cesar Rodriguez said the company understands the county’s desire for a resolution and remains ready to negotiate. According to BP, the company has reached out to the union on June 23, 29, and 30 and July 8 for a follow-up meeting but has not received a response. The parties last held their 63rd formal bargaining session on June 10.

The union countered BP’s characterization, stating that the two sides have met dozens of times but that BP has only presented proposals that would eliminate local jobs, force pay cuts, and surrender bargaining and seniority rights. More than 98% of union members rejected the company’s latest proposal, according to a USW statement.

USW 7-1 President Eric Schultz thanked the council for the resolution, noting that 800 families are impacted by the lockout. Council President Christine Cid, who lives near the refinery, expressed concern about safety when skilled workers are not present and about the financial strain on families preparing for the back-to-school season.

The lockout began after negotiations that started January 5 failed to produce a successor agreement before the previous contract expired on January 31. Approximately 450 employees and specialized contractors currently operate the refinery during the lockout, according to BP.

Sources: Chicago Tribune, Post-Tribune coverage