Workers authorize strike
at Kapalua golf courses

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Star-Bulletin staff

LAHAINA >> Workers who maintain the three golf courses at Kapalua authorized their union yesterday to strike if a settlement could not be reached in contract negotiations.

The vote yesterday was 78-3 in favor of the strike, according to Local 142 of the International Longshore and Warehouse Union. The contract covering 102 workers expires at 4:30 p.m. today.

Kapalua Land Co. spokeswoman Caroline Egli said it would be irresponsible to pay the wages demanded considering the economic climate of the state, nation and resort industry.

"We're also looking at a possible war that our nation will become involved in," Egli said.

Union official Leonard Nakoa III said Kapalua Land Co. has refused to provide information about its financial condition.

Egli said a federal mediator is scheduled to meet with both sides on Feb. 25, and the company offered to extend the contract until the meeting but the union refused.

Kapalua Land maintains the Plantation Course -- where the Mercedes Championships is played annually -- and the Bay Course and Village Course.