MINNEAPOLIS — More than 400 Minneapolis Public Works employees are ready to strike after voting nearly unanimously Wednesday to authorize the move in an effort to get more pay and safer work conditions.
Officials with LIUNA Local 363, the union representing more than 400 city employees, said 99% voted to strike, adding in a statement that its members "have reached a breaking point."
“Our members’ work ensures clean water, safe streets, well-kept public spaces, and accessible parks,” said AJ Lange, Business Manager of LIUNA Local 363 in a release. “We don't just do our jobs – we keep the city functioning. Yet, despite our critical role, workers feel undervalued and overlooked."
Another mediation session is scheduled for Thursday, and city officials remain hopeful a deal can be reached before a strike occurs.
"The City of Minneapolis recognizes and appreciates the hard work City staff represented by LIUNA Local 363 conduct each day on behalf of our residents," said a spokesperson with the City of Minneapolis. "We continue to bargain in good faith and work toward a fair and equitable contract for these employees. While we are taking necessary precautions and developing contingency plans to minimize disruptions in the event of a strike, our primary focus remains reaching a swift and amicable resolution that avoids such an outcome."
According to the union, the current contract expired on Dec. 31, 2023. Now, they're seeking a new contract that addresses several issues, including the staffing and scheduling problems that they say have caused burnout. The union has yet to set a strike date, but state law requires at least 10 days' notice before the first day of the strike.
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