#USA #Minneapolis #University of Minnesota #Teamsters Local 320 #Labor Negotiation

University of Minnesota Teamsters Reject Labor Proposal

On September 5, 2025, members of Teamsters Local 320 at the University of Minnesota delivered a clear message to their administration by overwhelmingly rejecting the final offer presented by their employer. In a vote, 82% of the 1,400 members, who are engaged in various essential services such as custodial, maintenance, and food service, decided against the terms laid out by the university. This decision indicates strong dissatisfaction among the workers regarding the current negotiations.

Jackson Kerr, the lead negotiator and business agent at Local 320, emphasized the union's intention to avoid strikes, noting that their primary objective is to achieve a fair agreement that aligns with the needs of their members. “Today, Teamsters have sent a message to the University of Minnesota,” Kerr stated, highlighting the collective sentiment among the workers.

Erik Skoog, the President of Local 320, reinforced this point, stating, “The university better agree to a fair contract with its Teamsters workers, or a strike is imminent.” This comment underscores the seriousness of the situation, indicating that the workers are prepared to take a stand to secure better terms.

The rejection of the final offer by such a significant margin sends a strong signal to university administration and regents that the demands of Teamsters need to be addressed effectively to prevent a work stoppage. Key points of contention in the negotiations include:

• - Wage Increases: Teamsters are seeking a wage increase that matches or surpasses the 3.5% increase recently granted to other bargaining units, which includes graduate students.
• - Contract Synchronization: They advocate for the contract expiration date to align with other campus unions, which is currently set for June.
• - Tentative Agreements: Teamsters are demanding the maintenance of tentative agreements made during mediation efforts.

Local 320 has made it clear that they reserve the right to engage in lawful work stoppages if necessary and may re-file their intent to strike with the Minnesota Bureau of Mediation Services, adhering to statutory timelines. Brian Aldes, the Secretary-Treasurer of Local 320, stated, “A system-wide strike remains an option as we maneuver through the next several days,” indicating that discussions among members across campuses will continue to determine the best course of action.

“The ball is now in the university's court to make this right or face a work stoppage,” he concluded. This statement reflects a palpable tension as the Teamsters await a response from the university administration.

The Teamsters Local 320 represents a diverse range of public sector workers across Minnesota. Their negotiation efforts are pivotal, not only for their immediate contracts but also for setting a precedent for future labor discussions within the state. For ongoing updates and further details on the negotiations, visit teamsterslocal320.org.