Dexter automotive parts maker lays off nearly half of work force

DEXTER, Mo. -- The Dexter area's largest employer has announced temporary cutbacks for nearly half the local plant's work force.

Employees at EMCON Technologies have been informed layoffs will be effective in part Friday, with additional layoffs coming May 15, for the local assembly lines that manufacture and distribute exhaust systems for GM trucks and GM's light vehicle systems for the auto industry.

The local EMCON plant, which went through layoffs earlier this year, has been working with a staff of about 430, the plant's union representation said. The current cut represents nearly half of that number and will affect nearly all production lines within the plant. When EMCON is in full production, more than 800 people work there.

Local management declined to comment.

A union spokesman at the Dexter plant said employees were notified last week of the layoffs.

EMCON historically shuts down the local plant entirely over the first two weeks in July. The union spokesman said the majority of the workers laid off this month would be back to work when the plant reopens July 13.

"The intention right now is to call those employees back to work following the July shutdown. That's their game plan," the spokesman said.

Members of the local United Autoworkers Union met Tuesday in Sikeston, Mo., to discuss layoff plans, according to the local representative.

Along with union workers, employees said, a "substantial" number of salaried staff members are also in line to be part of the layoffs this month.

EMCON, with headquarters in Columbus, Ind., produces emission systems for General Motors, Chrysler, Ford and Harley-Davidson, with General Motors being its primary source of business. The Dexter plant has been the area's leading employer for more than 30 years.