Early problems with "no lay-off language" in a contract for AFSCME employees in Iroquois County were resolved. And—the County Board Tuesday approved its new contract with the employees represented by the American Federation of State, County & Municipal Employees union.

Weeks of haggling ended. The County Board gave its approval with a unanimous vote. Board Chairman Kyle Anderson commenting that "it's nice to be able to work it out."

AFSCME waived the "no lay-off language" that had kept the matter unresolved. A few insurance issues were also worked out.

Union rep David Beck also said it was good to get this behind us and not the workers can focus on their jobs.

The contract is retroactive to April 2014. Employees see a 20 cent hike in pay the first year, 30 cents the next two and an additional 35 cent raise is tacked on December 1, 2016.

94.1 WGFA