UPDATE: In a significant development, over 2,000 workers from the Grain Millers Union at the American Crystal Sugar Company are set to return to work following a decisive vote on October 23, 1971. The union members overwhelmingly approved a new three-year contract with a stunning 85% approval rate, effectively ending a week-long strike that had shut down operations at seven plants.
The contract promises a 32% pay increase, including a 12% raise in the first year, alongside enhanced fringe benefits. This agreement marks a critical turning point for workers who had walked off their jobs after negotiations stalled. Eugene Panzer, District Two secretary of the union, confirmed the vote count, stating, “Over 900 votes were cast in favor of the agreement, signaling a strong unity among the workers.”
The mills affected include four facilities in the Red River Valley located in Drayton, ND, and Crookston, Moorhead, and East Grand Forks, MN. Other plants in Chaska, MN, Mason City, IA, and Rocky Ford, CO will also resume operations. Panzer indicated that the mills would begin restarting operations as soon as arrangements are made, with the Drayton plant already having workers back on site on Saturday night.
Union meetings were held simultaneously across all local chapters on Saturday at 4 PM, where the results were quickly compiled and communicated. Harry Hann, president of the East Grand Forks local union, expressed relief and optimism, stating, “I feel that is the feeling of the majority,” after reporting a vote tally of 113 in favor to just 7 against the contract.
The return to work is critical not just for the workers but also for the local economy, as these plants are essential to the region’s agricultural output. The process of restarting operations will take time, with full functionality expected to be achieved in a few days. Panzer noted, “It will be a slow process… and could be two or three days before full operation is reached.”
In addition to the substantial pay increases, the new contract includes improved benefits such as a new severance program, enhanced medical coverage, additional vacation time, and a night differential pay scale. This represents a significant step forward for the workers who had previously faced stagnation in negotiations since the old contract expired on August 1.
Union president Roy Wellborn expressed satisfaction with the agreement, emphasizing the importance of the contract’s provisions for the workers’ welfare. The emotional toll of the strike was palpable among workers and their families, highlighting the human impact of labor negotiations in America.
As operations ramp up, all eyes will be on the American Crystal Sugar Company’s plants. The successful resolution of this strike serves as a reminder of the power of collective bargaining and the ongoing struggles faced by workers in securing fair wages and benefits.
Stay tuned for further updates as operations resume and the impact of this agreement unfolds across the region.
