Overview
- More than 200 employees represented by Teamsters Local 727 authorized a strike after rejecting Brookfield Zoo’s “last, best, and final” offer.
- Negotiations are scheduled for Friday morning before the current contract expires at 11:59 p.m., in a final push to avoid a walkout.
- Union leaders say the zoo’s proposal offered under 4% in raises, would end 100% employer‑paid union health care, and comes as they pursue eight unfair labor practice cases with the labor board.
- Zoo officials counter that their offer includes 14.5% in raises over four years, six new full‑time positions, continued healthcare, and wages that rank in the top quarter of accredited zoos.
- The zoo says contingency plans will keep the facility open and ensure uninterrupted animal care if workers strike.