Union Workers To Vote On Crystal Sugar Co. Offer

FARGO, N.D. (AP) -- Union representatives for locked-out workers at American Crystal Sugar Co. say they will have members vote by Nov. 1 on the latest contract proposal.

The two sides met with a mediator Monday and Tuesday but didn't agree on terms. Company officials say the union failed to adequately address key issues. Union leaders say the company's newest offer doesn't have substantial changes.

About 1,300 workers have been locked out since Aug. 1 at plants in North Dakota, Minnesota and Iowa. The company has been using replacement workers.

Union leaders say they will hold a vote in spite of their complaints.

Richard Larson, a worker at the East Grand Forks, Minn., plant, tells the Grand Forks Herald that 75 percent of union members want to hold out for a good deal.

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