U of M low-wage workers authorize strike, but negotiations continue

Dale Thames speaks during a press conference.
Dale Thames, a food service employee at the University of Minnesota, speaks during a press conference at the offices of the Teamsters Local 320 in Minneapolis on Thursday. Thames says he can barely get by on the less than $12.50 an hour wage he's paid at the university.
Peter Cox | MPR News

Around 1,500 workers across the University of Minnesota system say they want more money and are willing to strike if need be. The union representing custodians, food services workers and groundskeepers, voted to authorize a strike Thursday.

Dale Thames is a father of two and makes less than $12.50 an hour in his full-time job as a food service worker at Centennial Hall. Thames said he has trouble providing for his children on what he makes.

"What they're giving me isn't even close to a livable wage. I shouldn't have to worry if I can make rent at the end of the month and I do," Thames said.

The University of Minnesota and Teamsters Local 320 have been in negotiations for months, but the union says those negotiations have stalled.

Political Coverage Powered by You

Your gift today creates a more connected Minnesota. MPR News is your trusted resource for election coverage, reporting and breaking news. With your support, MPR News brings accessible, courageous journalism and authentic conversation to everyone - free of paywalls and barriers. Your gift makes a difference.

Brian Aldes, the secretary treasurer and principal officer for Local 320, says the university has offered a little more than a 1 percent raise.

"Our perception is that ... they will continue to drag this out if we don't hold them accountable," Aldes said, adding they plan to take the time necessary to negotiate an agreement.

The union represents food service, custodial, building maintenance, gardeners and a huge variety of other workers across the campuses. The list includes elevator mechanics and the lead ice maker at Mariucci Arena.

Patti Dion, director of employee relations, said in a statement that "the University continues to negotiate with the Teamsters with the intent to come to an agreement. There are still several process steps that would need to be taken before a strike would occur."

The two sides plan to meet with a state mediator Nov. 27.

Aldes, the union secretary treasurer, said the strike would only happen if the bargaining unit rejects either the last best offer from the U or a negotiated settlement. If the union files its intent to strike with the state of Minnesota, there would be 10-day "cooling off period," and a possible further chance to negotiate.

The U would remain open and continue its teaching, research, and outreach work if a strike occurs, Dion said.