May 19, 2018
Group of 50 Local 174 Members Vote “Yes” To New Contract
This morning, 50 warehouse workers at MacMillan Piper voted overwhelmingly to approve a new 3-year agreement. The group was thrilled to ratify their contract, which achieved all of the goals they had identified prior to negotiations.
The contract includes strong wage increases, especially in the first year; healthcare with no out-of-pocket expense, along with roll-ups that are expected to hold out-of-pocket costs at zero for the life of the contract; and significant money available for pension increases. There is also improved holiday language and better rules for the scheduling of floating holidays, which will improve quality of life for MacMillan Piper workers.
Originally, company management had only been interested in signing a one-year agreement with the Teamsters, and would not budge from that position until a 100% unanimous strike authorization vote was taken on May 5. Once MacMillan Piper management saw the strength and solidarity of the group – who were absolutely willing to strike to get a contract that would guarantee their future for longer than just one year – they quickly had a change of heart and found their way to a compromise of a 3-year contract.
“This is another proud day for the members of Teamsters Local 174, as MacMillan Piper Teamsters stood together and fought for a contract that will give them what they deserve,” said Teamsters Local 174 Secretary-Treasurer Rick Hicks. “Our members demonstrate the power of solidarity every single day, and this outstanding contract is further proof of that power.”
Founded in 1909, Teamsters Local 174 represents 7,200 working men and women in the Seattle area. “Like” us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/TeamstersLocal174.
