Workers at a Ford plant OK contract concessions

Workers at a Ford Motor Company plant in suburban Sterling Heights overwhelmingly agreed to nonwage contract concessions in an effort to avoid layoffs or a permanent factory shutdown.

It was the fourth time this year that United Automobile Workers members approved changes in work rules that are expected to cut Ford's operating costs.

The concessions, which were approved 3 to 1, are expected to save nearly 700 jobs. The cost-cutting project modifies scheduling, overtime, and work conditions, but doesn't touch wages.