Workers ratify MGM contract

Friday, Oct. 31, 2003 | 9:13 a.m.

DETROIT -- Workers at MGM Grand Casino have ratified a new four-year contract, union officials announced late Thursday.

The new contract -- approved by 59 percent of those who voted -- includes pay raises, enhanced retirement security and no increases in health insurance premiums, the Detroit Casino Council said in a written statement.

"We worked long and hard to complete this agreement," said Elizabeth Bunn, chief negotiator for the casino council. "Our bargaining committee was adamant about persuading management at MGM Grand that workers deserve a fair share of the revenue generated here in Detroit."

Yvette Monet, spokeswoman for MGM MIRAGE, the Las Vegas-based parent of MGM Grand in Detroit, said MGM is very pleased that the union members recognized the value of the agreement.

"The agreement reflects MGM Grand's concern for the well being of the MGM grand employees and their families," Monet said.

Union officials announced on Oct. 24 that they had reached a tentative agreement with MGM. Negotiations with the city's Greektown and Motor City casinos are ongoing.

The contract with MGM covers approximately 1,850 union-represented employees. Participating unions of the Council at MGM are the United Auto Workers union, Hotel Employees Restaurant Employees, Teamsters, and Operating Engineers.

The new contract includes a $2,000 bonus in the first year of the contract; a $500 lump-sum payment and a 2.5 percent wage increase in the second year.

In the third year workers will receive a 3 percent wage increase or a 40-cent per hour increase, whichever is greater. In the fourth year, they will receive a 4 percent wage increase or a 50-cent per hour increase, whichever is greater.

The new agreement also includes an improved retirement security plan for MGM Grand workers. No employee contribution is required for the new plan.

The company will make contributions for all workers with more than one year of service, ranging from 50 cents to 70 cents per hour depending on seniority.

The new contract maintains quality health care coverage for MGM Grand workers, with no increase in premiums or co-pays for office visits or generic drugs.

MGM Grand also has agreed to recognize the Detroit Casino Council as the bargaining representative for hotel worker classifications if a new hotel and gaming facility is opened during the term of this agreement.