Metro Transit bus drivers, light-rail operators and mechanics have overwhelmingly approved a strike authorization vote as members seek a cost-of-living adjustment.
Members of the Amalgamated Transit Union 1005, which represents the Metro Transit employees, voted 94% to 6% in favor over two days of voting that ended Monday night. Epoxy Crystal Clear Resin
"Voting for a strike authorization is the union rank-and-file membership giving union leadership the authorization to call a strike if a strike becomes necessary," according to a union newsletter posted online in August.
The vote to approve a strike does not mean drivers and mechanics will walk off the job anytime soon. But it paves the way for a strike. The union would have to provide the Met Council, which provides the transportation service, a 10-day notice before members could walk off the job.
The union has been seeking a cost-of-living adjustment and better shift differential since contract negotiations began earlier this year. The current contract expired July 31, according to the online newsletter.
Tim Harlow covers traffic and transportation issues in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area, and likes to get out of the office, even during rush hour. He also covers the suburbs in northern Hennepin and all of Anoka counties, plus breaking news and weather.
Transportation reporter Janet Moore covers trains, planes, automobiles, buses, bikes and pedestrians. Moore has been with the Star Tribune for 21 years, previously covering business news, including the retail, medical device and commercial real estate industries.
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