UPDATE: In a significant development, striking workers at the American Crystal Sugar Company are set to return to work following a decisive vote that just concluded. On October 24, 1971, over 2,000 members of the Grain Millers Union voted with an overwhelming 85% majority to accept a new three-year contract, effectively ending a week-long strike that shut down seven plants, including four in the Red River Valley.
The contract guarantees a 32% pay increase, with a notable 12% raise in the first year, alongside enhanced fringe benefits. This agreement is crucial for the workers, who had walked off the job just a week earlier after negotiations stalled. The previous contract had expired on August 1, leaving workers eager for a resolution.
Union secretary Eugene Panzer confirmed that the contract acceptance was reported at 7 p.m. on Saturday, October 23, following a tally of 1,064 votes cast across all mills. “Over 900 yes votes were cast against just over 100 no votes,” Panzer stated. The strong support reflects widespread approval of the new terms among union members.
Union meetings were simultaneously conducted at local chapters, with the East Grand Forks branch reporting 113 votes in favor of the contract and only 7 against, as per local president Harry Hann. “I am really happy for everyone that the vote was strongly in favor,” Hann remarked. The plants, including key facilities in Drayton, Crookston, Moorhead, and East Grand Forks, will begin ramping up operations immediately.
Panzer indicated that the Drayton plant had already resumed operations by Saturday night, with plans to begin processing sugar beets as early as Sunday. “It will take some time to get everything back to full capacity,” he noted, emphasizing that workers would be on duty starting Sunday morning.
The new contract not only boosts wages but also improves various benefits, including a new severance program, enhanced medical coverage, and additional vacation time. Union president Roy Wellborn expressed satisfaction with the outcome, stating, “Everyone seems pleased with the settlement.”
This resolution marks a pivotal moment for the workers and their families, as the prolonged strike had significant implications for the local economy and community. With the mills resuming operations, the focus now shifts to rebuilding productivity and ensuring stability for the workforce.
As operations restart, the community and the industry will closely monitor the implementation of the new contract and its effects on the workers at American Crystal Sugar Company.
