SHELBY — A 67-day strike in Shelby is over.
United Steelworkers Local 3057 President Norm Shoemaker confirmed with Richland Source Saturday night that union members approved a proposed agreement with ArcelorMittal — putting an end to the longest strike in USW Local 3057’s history.
“The proposed agreement presented to the local union was passed overwhelmingly today,” Shoemaker said in a message Saturday to union members.
According to Shoemaker, 220 members voted in favor of the proposed agreement — 153 voted against it.
“Like the majority of our union brothers and sisters, I am ready to get back to work and continue being the greatest tube makers in the world,” the union president said.
No additional details of the agreement between ArcelorMittal and the union were released Saturday night.
Strike began Jan. 13
The strike began at 11:59 p.m. on January 13. Picketing outside of the Shelby steel company began almost simultaneously. While on strike, workers forfeited their pay.
Their insurance benefits also came to a halt at the end of January, Steve Ackerman, a USW International representative, said in February.
About 450 employees participated in the strike. ArcelorMittal is Shelby’s largest employer.
“We will be in contact with the company to determine the timeline for restarting operations and will share that information with the membership as soon as it becomes available,” Shoemaker said Saturday.
“Additionally, we will need assistance with breaking down the picket line. Any help would be greatly appreciated,” he said.
