MINNEAPOLIS — Picketers interrupted Wednesday's Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) meeting after the board rejected a move to add a potential resolution to its agenda.
The resolution to pursue a prompt settlement was brought to the board by District 3 Commissioner Becky Alper, who made her plea before a packed room filled with striking workers.
"This is no longer a time to remain silent," Alper said. "What you see before you is a path forward. To find a solution to this present conflict, which respects the gravity of the situation. It's not about winning. This resolution isn't pro-union or pro-MPRB management. If it had to choose a side, I would say it's with the people."
Commissioner Tom Olsen also supported the resolution, however, the motion to add it to the agenda was rejected.
The strike began on July 4 after LIUNA Local 363, the union representing more than 300 workers, rejected the board's final offer. Since then, there have been multiple negotiation sessions, however, no deal has been reached. The union continues to press the board for a "fair" contract, saying some of their big concerns include union representation and professional advancement.
The MPRB has maintained that its offers have been "very fair," saying that their offer on July 16 included a proposed 10.25% raise over three years, a $1.75 wage adjustment spread out over two years and contract language changes.
It's the latest chapter in what has been a contentious 20 days since since the beginning of the strike back. Last week, the MPRB filed an unfair labor practice charge after picketers allegedly "harassed and blocked" truck drivers from delivering to park-owned buildings.
The union filed the same charge against the MPRB on July 8 claiming the Board was using misinformation to undermine the workers.
