United Auto Workers Local 2300 and Cornell University announced July 1 that the union, which represents more than 1,150 Cornell service and maintenance employees on Cornell's main campus in Ithaca, has ratified a new, four-year agreement with the university. The previous contract expired June 30, 2005.

The new contract, which runs from July 1, 2005, through June 30, 2009, comes at the end of a month of good-faith bargaining between the parties.

"It is a fair and equitable contract, and we're looking forward to the next four years of working together with Cornell to assure [that] Cornell remains the university of choice for our students and the employer of choice for our members," said Scott Montani, UAW international union representative.

"The amicable working relationship the parties have developed over the past 25 years contributed greatly to the successful completion of bargaining," said E. Peter Tufford, Cornell director of staff and labor relations. "Although we certainly do not agree on everything, we have learned to listen and attempt to address each others concerns in a dignified and respectful manner. I am pleased with the results of our discussion and look forward to strengthening our relationship over the next four years."