Ilikai workers OK new contract, leading to reopening of Waikiki hotel
By APThursday, July 16, 2009
Ilikai workers OK new contract
HONOLULU — Union workers let go from their jobs at the Ilikai have ratified a new contract that will lead to the reopening of the iconic hotel in Waikiki.
The outcome of Wednesday’s vote was announced by union officials.
They say that under the new contract, wages, benefits and job security provisions will remain intact for 50 of 75 workers expected to return when the hotel reopens.
New York-based iStar Financial Inc. acquired the hotel for $51 million at a foreclosure auction in May. It closed the hotel last Thursday.
But the very next day, the company and UNITE HERE Local 5 announced they had reached a deal enabling the hotel to reopen.
The company says employment will be offered to Ilikai workers on the basis of seniority.
