North Dakota Simplot Workers on Strike

GRAND FORKS, N.D. (AP) — Striking workers at the J.R. Simplot Co. potato processing plant in Grand Forks have rejected the company's latest contract offer.

Nearly 200 union employees walked off the job Aug. 4. The main contract disputes include working hours, health care premiums and a switch from a pension plan to a 401(k) plan.

The latest union vote came Thursday, a day after the two sides met to try to resolve differences. Simplot spokesman Doug Cole tells KNOX radio that the company is disappointed but optimistic a resolution can be found. Simplot is based in Boise, Idaho.

The Grand Forks plant makes french fries and other potato products for fast food restaurants around the country.