DENVER — If a new labor contract isn't reached by the time the existing one expires May 9, unionized workers at Safeway's meat warehouse in Denver have voted to authorize a strike, according to The Associated Press.

Safeway hasn't relented on proposed cuts in pension benefits and a wage freeze for two-thirds of workers, United Food and Commercial Workers Local 7 charges. The warehouse contract would cover 31 employees.

Safeway spokeswoman Kris Staaf said the company hopes to reach a mutually agreeable contract with all employees.