TOPs Ratify Contract

Northern's technical and office professionals (UAW Local 1950) have ratified a three-year contract. The final tally was 91-44 in favor of the proposal, which had been modified from a previously negotiated agreement voted down earlier this month.

The contract calls for across-the-board 2 percent salary increases in each of the three years. Those earning less than $15 per hour will receive equity enhancements of 3 percent in the first year and 2 percent in the second year. Members will also be eligible for annual bonuses ranging from $50-$350, depending on the contract year and their salary level.

“The goal was to address those individuals being affected by the minimum wage compression and assist all members with health care expenses,” said Ann Sherman (Human Resources).

Of the 161 union members eligible to vote on Monday, 135 cast ballots.

“We are pleased we were able to come to terms on this agreement,” said Sue Tollefson (USOEC), UAW 1950 president. “We were able to clean up a few stumbling blocks from the first tentative agreement and our members approved this one convincingly.”

The contract, retroactive to July 1, must be approved by the NMU Board of Trustees at its December meeting.