Workers at the Brookfield Zoo began a strike on Monday after contract negotiations between the International Brotherhood of Teamsters Local 727 and zoo management failed to reach an agreement. According to the union, over 100 employees, including groundskeepers and custodial staff, walked off the job, while animal care specialists remain on duty for now and plan to join once an essential care plan for the animals is finalized.

The strike follows the expiration of an extended labor contract last Friday and comes amid unresolved disputes over healthcare, wage increases, and staffing levels. John Coli Jr., secretary-treasurer of Local 727, said the zoo is seeking to reduce costs broadly, which the union opposes. The Teamsters reported that union members had voted last week to authorize the strike due to what they described as unfair labor practices, including allegations of bad faith bargaining by zoo management. The zoo denies these claims, asserting that it has negotiated in good faith.

The zoo remains open to visitors and has posted a statement online assuring the public that operations continue as usual, though acknowledging that some programs and experiences, such as dolphin shows, might be altered or canceled because of the strike. Zoo representatives emphasized that animal care is uninterrupted, maintained by a team of veterinarians, curators, and specialists committed to the animals’ welfare. The union echoed this sentiment, affirming their dedication to the animals' well-being despite the labor action.

Among those striking is senior groundskeeper Carrie Sapienza, who said she has worked at the zoo for over 30 years and has never participated in a strike before. Sapienza highlighted rising living costs, including fuel and groceries, as key reasons for demanding higher wages and better healthcare coverage. She described the groundskeeping team’s role in supporting various zoo functions, including assisting animal caretakers with moving animals and equipment.

Wage negotiations have been a central point of contention. The zoo offered pay increases totaling 14.5% over a proposed four-year contract, averaging about 3.6% annually, while the union sought a 21% increase, or approximately 5.25% per year. The zoo characterized its offer as competitive and suggested that meeting the union’s higher wage demands could force significant increases in admission prices. The zoo also said it was open to increasing staffing in certain areas but maintained current levels overall.

Both sides have stressed their commitment to the zoo’s mission and the long-term sustainability of the institution. The zoo described the strike as “disappointing” and said it remains focused on negotiating a fair contract that supports employees without compromising operational viability. The union, meanwhile, characterized the strike as a necessary step to achieve equitable treatment and better compensation for its members.