Aluminum Workers Ok New Contracts

An aluminum workers union on Wednesday agreed to new contracts with the Aluminum Co. of America and Reynolds Metals Co., ending the threat of a walkout.

Aluminum, Brick and Glassworkers union members voted for six-year contracts with the companies. No breakdown of the vote was available, said John Murphy, the union’s chief negotiator.

“We now have a contract,” Murphy said. “The future of these plants is determined by if we can work together or not.”

Neither company would comment about the contracts Wednesday.

The agreement increases wages by $1.15 per hour spread over five years. The pact also includes improved pension benefits, sickness and accident benefits and dental and life insurance.