American Silicon Workers Vote To Return

Striking workers at American Silicon Technologies have decided to return to their jobs, though some won’t come back immediately because of layoffs.

Local 3661 members of the United Steelworkers of America narrowly voted Saturday to accept a new contract, local president Ron Kurpus said. Local 3661 represents 80 of the 105 employees at the Wenatchee-area plant.

Union members went on strike May 29 after their contract expired and negotiations for a new agreement broke down.

Plant managers say market conditions will force the plant to run on two furnaces instead of three. As a result, about 25 employees will be laid off for an indefinite period.