AK Steel reaches agreement with union at Coshocton plant

A contract has been finalized between AK Steel Corp and its union in Coshocton. However, negotiations are still in the works between the company and its workers at the Middletown plant. Members of the United Auto Workers Local 3462 in Coshocton, Ohio have approved a three-year contract with AK Steel, replacing the contract that expires April 1, 2007. The new agreement covers 380 hourly workers and includes wage increases, a signing bonus, flexibility in the use of maintenance operators, company contributions to employees' 401K plans and premium cost-sharing for active and retired employees' health benefits. The new agreement will expire March 31, 2010. Meanwhile, AK Steel intends to meet with the union representing the Middletown plant on March 5, 2007, in order to discuss the union's latest counter-proposal which was presented on February 20. AK Steel, producer of flat-rolled carbon steel, stainless steel, and electrical steel, locked out 2,500 hourly employees at Middletown Works almost a year ago.