A group of current and former Camelot Terrace employees picketed Wednesday in front of the nursing home at 516 W. Frech St.

They charge that owner Michael Lerner, of Chicago, has been engaging in unfair labor practices, such as stalling on contract negotiations, wrongfully terminating employees and giving minimal raises.

"We're here protesting the unfair practices of the owner of Camelot Terrace," Ron Neimark, a spokesman for Service Exmployees International Union Healthcare, the group's union, told the Times. "We've been fighting for three years to get a contract."

Neimark said most of the people who have been wrongfully terminated have been reinstated because the labor board ordered them back or Lerner attempted to settle the charges with the union.

Megan Sonsoucie was a certified nurse assistant for almost a year when she says she was fired in a voice mail because she missed work while her daughter was in the hospital. According to other picketers, the practice of firing people via phone message is not uncommon.

"They need to learn how to be more professional," said Sonsoucie.

Cathy Jackson has been a CNA for more than a year at the home.

"We're worth more than 10 cents after five years," Jackson said. "I don't think they should base our reviews on whether we do community service or not. It should be based on quality of care."

Jackson also believes Lerner is unfair to single parents.

"He told me one time I need to get a job where I can take care of my son when needed."

"Lerner has been obstinate and ridiculous through the whole process," said Paul Waterhouse, communications director for SEIU Healthcare. "There is no excuse for his behavior. He's not playing by the rules. Millions of taxpayer dollars are going to Lerner and his related businesses."

According to Waterhouse, the labor board is considering the possibility of imposing stronger sanctions because Lerner's behavior has been so "outrageous and outlandish." A hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, Aug. 25, at the district office in Peoria, when Waterhouse believes Lerner may be ordered to immediately restore employment.

Waterhouse said members of the Streator union voted to unionize three years ago.

The Times contacted Lerner, who had no comment about the charges.

The group plans to continue picketing Thursday and Friday from 9 am to 6 pm.