MOORPARK : Ironworks Owner Faces Complaint

Leaders of a union trying to organize workers at two Moorpark ironworks have filed a complaint against the owner of the plants with the National Labor Relations Board for refusing to negotiate with them.

Larry K. Sexton, an official of the Iron Workers Shopmen’s Local 509, said the union filed a complaint against Steve Patton on Tuesday. Patton owns both Red Iron Fabricators and Embassy Ironworks Co., which produce structural steel for buildings and wrought-iron for fences.

Patton could not be reached for comment Thursday.

Sexton said the two dozen men employed at the plants asked union officials three weeks ago to represent them in negotiations with Patton over wages and benefits.

Patton refused to recognize the union, and his employees began picketing Monday at the entrance to the ironworks on Los Angeles Avenue.

Sexton said the workers will continue their strike until they hear from the labor board, which will decide whether the union can represent them.