Metro Transit bus drivers, light-rail operators and mechanics have overwhelmingly approved a strike authorization vote as members seek a cost-of-living adjustment.

Members of the Amalgamated Transit Union 1005, which represents the Metro Transit employees, voted 94% to 6% in favor over two days of voting that ended Monday night.

"Voting for a strike authorization is the union rank-and-file membership giving union leadership the authorization to call a strike if a strike becomes necessary," according to a union newsletter posted online in August.

The vote to approve a strike does not mean drivers and mechanics will walk off the job anytime soon. But it paves the way for a strike. The union would have to provide the Met Council, which provides the transportation service, a 10-day notice before members could walk off the job.

The union has been seeking a cost-of-living adjustment and better shift differential since contract negotiations began earlier this year. The current contract expired July 31, according to the online newsletter.