As expected, Northampton County Council members unanimously approved a new contract with corrections officers at their June 18 meeting. They had no choice because the matter went to binding arbitration.

It's a three year deal for the years 2015-2017. Corrections officers will receive a 4 percent raise this year, starting July 1. Next year, everyone will get a step increase, which translates to a 4.5 percent raise. Those who are the top of the scale will get a $1,200 lump sum payment. In 2017, there will be another 2 percent increase. Roughly, it's a 10.5 percent raise over three years.

AFSCME union agent Justus James, who was at the June 17 Personnel Committee to explain the agreement reached with corrections officers, appealed to the full council to vote on another four union contracts that have been approved for juvenile detention, court-related, court-appointed and residual county workers.

But as Ken Kraft explained later that evening, the administration needs time to work on the wording. The vote on those contracts will take place on July 1.

These four contracts guarantee members a 14 percent wage hike over the next three years. They were approved unanimously by union members.

All five contracts will place a $550,000 dent in this year's budget.

Approximately 75 percent of Northampton County's 2,200-person workforce is represented by 11 different unions.