NEW YORK - It looks like there won't be a strike by maintenance workers and security guards at Columbia University.
The union representing more than 600 cleaners, electricians, plumbers, painters, and security officers at four Columbia campuses says the two sides have agreed in principle to a two-year contract.
The big sticking point for TWU Local 241 was a hike in health care costs.
After a 17-hour negotiating session this weekend, health care, union leaders say was left untouched.
Sources say the agreement provides no pay increases but there are some bonuses.
"The University is pleased to have reached a tentative agreement with the representatives of TWU, with whom we have engaged in rigorous and respectful negotiations," a spokesperson for Columbia University said in a statement. "We look forward to fully implementing the provisions of the agreement once it is ratified."
The union had warned that a strike by cleaners would have jeopardized Columbia's plan to welcome students back to campus in the fall for a modified schedule.