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ADAC Automotive Inc. in Muskegon

(MLive File Photo | Cory Morse)

MUSKEGON, MI – Employees at one of Muskegon County's largest employers are making a push to unionize.

The United Automobile Workers will hold a vote for more than 670 production, maintenance and technical support employees at ADAC Automotive on Thursday, Dec. 18.

The vote will begin early in the morning and continue until 7 p.m. at ADAC's three Muskegon locations on Keating Avenue, Port City Boulevard and Olthoff Street.

The UAW became involved with ADAC employees when a group of unhappy employees approached the labor union about the way they were being treated. According to Dan Kosheba, representative with the UAW, there were several main complaints.

"Main complaints include they change their policy every time the wind changes whether in attendance or how or when you can schedule vacations," Kosheba said. "Others said there is no clear system of advancement and that it's more by favoritism."

Wages and benefits were also an area of concern, Kosheba said.

Terry Leberfinger, ADAC VP of Human Resources, released the following statement on behalf of the company in regards to the planned union vote:

United Auto Workers has petitioned the National Labor Relations Board seeking an election to determine whether ADAC Automotive Associates desire union representation for the purpose of collective bargaining. The vote is scheduled for Thursday, Dec. 18, 2014.

While ADAC Automotive respects our associates' legal right to seek union representation, ADAC does not believe that having a third party is in our best interest. ADAC Automotive's goal during the election campaign period has been to ensure that every associate has the necessary information in order to make an informed decision on this very important matter.

ADAC Automotive will respect the process and live with the results.

Kosheba said the push to unionize began with a small group and continued to grow over time. The National Labor Relations Board requires that one-third of the employee population express interest in forming a union before a vote can take place.

"We had well over that threshold," he said.

Kosheba wouldn't speculate on whether or not he thinks the vote will pass, but that the UAW is "optimistic." If the vote passes, the UAW will begin the process of holding elections for the employees to choose their leadership and bargaining committees for the union structure.

The UAW will then request meetings with ADAC management. How long it actually takes for something to happen is on a case-by-case basis.

"It all depends on how receptive the company is to allowing the people to have a voice," Kosheba said. "Sometimes these things go very smoothly, sometimes they could be drug out."

ADAC began its operations in Muskegon in 1990. The company produces exterior door handle assemblies, exterior mirrors, fuel filler doors and rear access trim parts for both American-based and foreign auto companies.

Brandon Champion covers arts and entertainment, business, sports and weather for MLive Muskegon Chronicle. Email him at bchampio@mlive.com and follow him on Twitter @BrandonThaChamp.