UPDATE: In a significant labor victory, over 2,000 workers from the Grain Millers Union have voted to end their week-long strike against the American Crystal Sugar Company. The decision, made on October 24, 1971, saw an overwhelming 85% approval for a new three-year contract that includes a staggering 32% pay increase, with a 12% raise in the first year alone.
The announcement was made just after 7 p.m. on Saturday, October 23, when union secretary Eugene Panzer completed the vote tally. The contract’s approval means the immediate reopening of seven plants, including four in the Red River Valley: Drayton, North Dakota, and Crookston, Moorhead, and East Grand Forks in Minnesota.
“Over 900 yes votes were cast against just over 100 no votes,” Panzer reported, signaling a strong consensus among the membership. Union leaders expressed relief and satisfaction, with Panzer stating, “Everyone is happy about the settlement.”
The vote took place during simultaneous union meetings across all locals, with significant turnout reported. For example, at the East Grand Forks plant, local president Harry Hann noted an impressive 113 votes in favor, compared to just 7 against the new agreement. “I feel that is the feeling of the majority,” he said.
Operations at the mills will resume as soon as possible. “Drayton plant officials reported they had workers back on duty Saturday night, aiming to start production by Sunday,” Panzer added. However, a complete return to normal operations may take up to three days as machinery and systems are restarted.
The contract, which resolves a labor dispute that began after the previous agreement expired on August 1, also includes enhanced fringe benefits. Among these improvements are a new severance program, increased medical coverage, and additional vacation days, addressing long-standing worker demands.
Looking ahead, the successful resolution of this strike highlights the importance of labor negotiations in achieving fair compensation and benefits. As the mills prepare to fully resume operations, the union and company both anticipate a return to productivity and stability in the region’s sugar production.
This development not only impacts the workers and their families but also the economic landscape of the Red River Valley, where the American Crystal Sugar Company plays a crucial role. As the situation unfolds, all eyes will be on how quickly operations can stabilize and what this might mean for future labor relations in the industry.
Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to follow this story.
