Wintry mix spreads across Minnesota

MPR News helps you turn down the noise and build shared understanding. Turn up your support for this public resource and keep trusted journalism accessible to all. 

Turn Up Your Support

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.

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.

Business and Economic News

Shows

Morning Edition

NewsPartners

Peter Cox

Author

A union representing about 1,500 hourly wage workers have authorized a strike, after they say negotiations with the U have stalled. The two sides plan to meet with a state mediator Nov. 27.

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

Dale Thames speaks during a press conference. 

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

Go Deeper.

Like this?

News you can use in your inbox