Minneapolis city workers have voted to approve a new contract offer which will see their wages rise significantly over the next three years, it has been announced. LiUNA Local 363 members, who cover a range of public services within the Public Works and Property Services Departments, agreed on the terms after extended negotiations that began last October.
Approximately 440 employees will be impacted by this agreement, which was brokered following several months of mediation. According to an announcement obtained by the City of Minneapolis, the wage increase is described as historic.
"I am grateful to our Local 363 employees and to our team of labor negotiators who worked diligently for months to come to an agreement that recognizes the value of our hardworking employees and the services they provide to our residents," City Operations Officer Margaret Anderson Kelliher is quoted as saying, acknowledging the effort that went into the negotiations.
The Local 363 members, who deliver critical City services including snow plowing, trash and recycling collection, and water treatment, are renowned for their contribution to the City's everyday functioning. The City has expressed appreciation for the dedication shown by the union members expressing how crucial their roles are in maintaining city operations.
This ratified contract is next set to go before the City Council, where it will seek final approval. The new deal represents a positive outcome from the protracted negotiations, both for the employees who've campaigned for fair wages, and for city officials responsible for maintaining essential public services.
