St. Paul, city workers reach agreement, avoiding strike, increasing base pay, union says
ST. PAUL, Minn. -- A union spokesperson says St. Paul city workers will not strike on Tuesday after a tentative agreement was reached with the city Monday night.
Local 49 said union members voted to officially ratify the agreement with the city on Thursday.
On March 8, more than 100 St. Paul city workers with Local 49 -- including public works, water services, and parks and recreation employees -- voted unanimously to authorize a strike. Representatives from Local 49 previously said the city's most recent contract, which has since expired, offered the lowest pay increases of any group they represent.
The city was negotiating with the Tri-Council, which also includes Teamsters Local 120 and Laborers Local 363. A strike would have impacted about 270 workers, including snow plow operators.
"Our members' voices were heard," A.J. Lange, Business Manager of LIUNA Local 363, said. "Tri-Council workers deserve a fair contract acknowledging St. Paul works because they work. This new proposal is a good economic contract for our members and puts us on the right track. We are committed to building from here. We look forward to working with the city to develop policies and procedures to keep our members safe."
Under the contract, members will earn a 9% increase in base pay during the three-year agreement with the ability to earn an additional 9% in steps based on years of service.
