Labor movement in Hub City has Aberdeen employees readying for union vote

City Hall stays neutral but defends compensation, conditions for civil service employees on municipal payroll

A group of Aberdeen city employees is moving to unionize, calling for higher wages, better benefits, and a stronger voice in workplace decisions.

Public employees working for the Hub City — excluding police and fire personnel — are scheduled to vote July 7 and 8 on whether to join the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), one of the largest labor unions for public workers in the United States.

“I’m hoping this election gets us moving toward wages that keep up competitive in the public sector and makes sure we have the same benefits and protections as other public workers in South Dakota,” said Bill Feiock, one of the workers involved in the organizing effort.

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