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The county negotiating team and the Teamsters Local 320 union representatives did not come to any terms after a mediation session called late last week at the Bureau of Mediation Services.  

County Administrator Chase Burnham stated in an announcement they were unable to reach any agreement.   The “primary issue” seems to be the additional market adjustment sought, which was previously publicized at three percent for the 2026-2027 contract in dispute.  The union has rejected the 6.5 percent compensation hike for each of the contract years, asking for the added three percent.

The union went on strike as of the end of the May 1 workday.  Teamsters 320 had filed for the process to enter mediation December 11, 2025.

The government center professional workers and the Health & Human Services staff are affected.  The administration especially thanked the 65 percent or so of the remaining employees who are continuing to come into work. In the public statement last week it was also mentioned that the contract terms and issues put forward “seem to have changed over time.”  There has been no comment from the Teamsters negotiators.

The residents of Chisago County are reminded that services continue to be provided and if you seek Health & Human Services contact or assistance, call 651-213-5600. 

In a report to the County Board for this week’s regular meeting the housing additions, demo and other programs and permit division are seeing strong numbers despite the stop work of some staff. The Environmental Services Department had 229 permits in the month of June. These were processed and granted for structures, commercial and residential and septics, demolition and other activities.

The Household Hazardous Waste Facility in the industrial park in North Branch has seen consistent levels of activity, with May at 370 visitors and there were 564 drop-offs in the month of June.  

The HHWF handles recyclables, household products like chemicals, pesticide and herbicides,  paints/stains, etc and sharps and plastic film.  See the county website for hours and goods it collects.

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