Highland Park Police Officers Get Contract After Long Struggle

2 1/2-Year Agreement Includes Retroactive Raises

Two years after their previous contract expired, Highland Park Police Officers will begin working under a new agreement that includes retroactive pay.

Highland Park City Council avoided arbitration and approved the new 2 ½-year contract on Monday, May 10. The previous contract expired April 30, 2008; the new contract will expire Dec. 31, 2010.

Teamsters Local 700 representatives were able to secure a 3.5 percent raise retroactive to May 1, 2008; no increase in fiscal year 2009; and a 2.5 percent raise retroactive to Jan. 1, 2010.

“We realize times are tough, but these officers continued to work hard and remain patient while we fought for this new deal,” said Becky Strzechowski, Local 700 Assistant Trustee. “They will finally get the raises they’ve had coming to them for so long. It’s a relief for everyone involved.”

Local 700 also was able to retain members’ previous benefits package and longevity system.

Teamsters Local 700, an affiliate of Teamsters Joint Council 25, represents more than 13,000 public employees throughout Illinois.

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