Chicago janitors represented by SEIU and area building owners have reached an agreement on a three-year contract. The contract will provide a pay increase and living wage as well as an assurance of family health insurance.

“Our agreement with these building owners and cleaning companies proves that responsible companies can invest in good jobs, provide health care and pay a livable wage to their employees,” Tom Balanoff, President of SEIU Local 1, said in a press release this morning. “These agreements will boost our whole local economy. SEIU Local 1 is leading the way for all working people – when you stand up together and bargain collectively, we all win.”

One week before the contract was set to expire, workers voted to authorize a strike, which was averted last week.