Minnesota's Hennepin County Workers Secure Robust New Contract

Hennepin County Workers Secure New Contract with Overwhelming Support

In a significant development for public service workers in Hennepin County, Minnesota, over 4,000 employees have successfully secured a new contract just in time for the holiday season. This achievement marks the culmination of extensive negotiations and dedicated union advocacy.

Last week, AFSCME Council 5 proudly shared on Facebook that workers from Locals 34, 552, 1719, 2864, and 2938 voted with an impressive 95% majority to ratify the new agreement. This vote is the result of months of relentless negotiations and active union participation by thousands of county employees.

Bart Andersen, Executive Director of Council 5, emphasized the significance of the contract by stating, “This major agreement is a win for every AFSCME member and every family that relies on the critical services provided by Hennepin County workers.” Andersen highlighted the union's efforts, both at the bargaining table and beyond, to secure benefits that lead the sector, offer competitive wages, and bring essential improvements to the workplace.

The contract is expected to not only enhance the working conditions for the employees of Hennepin County, which includes Minneapolis, the state's largest city, but also provide improved services to the community at large.