Over 1,400 service workers across all five University of Minnesota campuses have voted to authorize a strike just weeks before the fall semester begins. Represented by Teamsters Local 320, these workers include cooks, custodians, groundskeepers, and truck drivers. The union filed an intent to strike after rejecting the university’s wage and benefits proposal, setting the stage for a potential walkout starting August 20, 2025.
The university has offered a 4.5% wage increase over three years, coupled with a 10% increase in healthcare costs. Union leaders argue the added healthcare expenses would nearly erase any wage gains, especially in the face of rising living costs. The union is demanding a 17% pay increase over the same period and condemns the university for a policy allowing new hires to start at higher wages than long-time employees.
Workers have also raised concerns about harassment from supervisors with the school’s contracted food-service provider, Chartwells Higher Ed. Many say they are struggling to keep up with inflation, with some forced to take second jobs to make ends meet. According to the union, the university’s current approach undervalues the dedication of long-serving employees and undermines workplace morale.
The University of Minnesota maintains that negotiations are ongoing and that it is working in good faith to reach an agreement. Administrators have stated they will implement contingency plans to limit disruptions if the strike proceeds. Under state law, a 10-day cooling-off period will take effect before any walkout, giving both sides one final opportunity to reach a deal.
Critics note that the university holds a $6 billion endowment and a $71 million budget surplus, yet is pushing healthcare cost increases onto workers.
