For years, workers for Itasca County, Minnesota, were paid less for doing the same jobs than those working for neighboring counties. Attracting and retaining workers was a problem.
All that’s finally changing — but only after AFSCME members who work for Itasca County fought for a fair contract for two years.
Through a powerful demonstration of unity and collective action, more than 300 county employees who formed unions through AFSCME Council 65 won a new three-year contract that gives working families the economic security they deserve.
The agreement, finalized after an intensive 13-hour mediation session on Feb. 26, includes a 16% wage increase over three years and adjustments to the wage scale, increasing both minimum and maximum pay rates by an additional 7%.
Wages finally catch up to other counties
These gains help bring Itasca County employees back in line with market standards, ensuring the county remains competitive in attracting and retaining skilled workers, AFSCME members say.
"These raises matter because we needed to stay competitive," said Jeremy Hanson, a 911 dispatcher and president of AFSCME Local 639. "Over the last few years, we went from being among the higher-paid counties in our region to one of the lowest. Dispatchers were leaving faster than we could replace them because surrounding counties offered better pay. With these raises, we’re finally catching up."
The fight for fair wages wasn’t easy. Workers initially faced resistance from county management, who offered minimal wage increases despite clear evidence presented by union members showing that their pay lagged significantly behind neighboring counties. It took a unified front — four AFSCME bargaining units coming together — to make the county acknowledge their value.
United and not backing down
"Solidarity was our strength," said Rick Hipsag, president of AFSCME Local 1452, representing road and bridge workers. "We were unified from the start, with each local supporting the others. When county officials had to walk through a hallway lined with over 100 AFSCME members to reach negotiations, it sent a powerful message: we're here, we're united, and we're not backing down."
Christopher Worth, president of AFSCME Local 1626 and an information technology worker, noted that the county tried to distract and divide the workers bringing up issues unrelated to wages. Workers refused to budge, insisting the negotiations focus solely on fair compensation. Ultimately, the workers prevailed, achieving their goals without giving up important protections.
"Being in a union gives us a collective voice that management can't ignore," Worth said. "It’s not about one person going into negotiations — it’s about hundreds standing together. This unity is why we succeeded."
Morale boosters
Betsy Whirley, a public health nurse and president of AFSCME Local 580, said the raises were critical for boosting morale and recognizing workers’ worth. She highlighted the importance of early planning, extensive member involvement, and clear communication throughout the contract campaign.
"Our members were deeply involved every step of the way," Whirley said. "When people understand what’s at stake and how far behind we were, they're willing to stand up and fight. That kind of solidarity and active participation was instrumental in achieving this victory."
The contract victory also holds personal meaning for many members.
For Hipsag, whose father was a longtime union steward, it represents continuing a legacy of workers supporting each other.
"I grew up watching my father fight for workers' rights," he said. "To be part of this union, to stand up and achieve something meaningful together, that’s what solidarity is all about. It’s powerful, emotional and incredibly rewarding."
This win underscores the union difference — workers who stand together win together. And what they win is far more than bigger paychecks.
"This isn’t just about money," Hanson said. "It’s about dignity, respect, and proving that when working people unite, we have the power to rewrite the rules and win."