More than 200 Members of IAM Local 623 (District 77) in Saint Cloud, MN employed by DeZURIK recently ratified a new three-year deal after a five-day strike. The new contract includes improved wages, the elimination of the two-tier wage system and improved paid leave.
Workers opposed a two-tier wage structure implemented in 2014, as well as company proposals related to health care benefits and paid time off. In the case of the two-tier system, workers on the lower tier performing the same work were paid $3 to $4 an hour less and without a path to the upper tier.
“I’m very proud of these members,” said IAM Midwest territory General Vice President Steve Galloway. “They sent a clear message to the company and their solidarity paid off by eliminating the two-tier wage system, and making it a better workplace for everyone.”
“My thanks go out to Business Representative Andrew Peltier, and the Negotiating Committee,” said District 77 Directing Business Representative John Steigauf. “Congratulations to the membership for fighting for a contract deserving of their hard work.”
“We had a plan, and the members were prepared,” said District 77 Business Representative Andrew Peltier. “My thanks go out to the membership, and especially the Strike Captains, and their leadership for making sure we were the friendly faces fighting for our careers and our children’s future.”
Workers at DeZURIK manufacture valves for municipal and industrial applications.