Posted: September 2, 2026
With a vote today by members of Teamsters Local 700 to accept the last proposal by the Forest Preserves of Cook County, the Teamsters strike at the Forest Preserves has ended. Local 700 employees in the landscape maintenance, resource management, conservation and experiential programming, and fleet and facilities departments are expected to return to work tomorrow.
“The Forest Preserves of Cook County is an organization built on a mission to protect wild spaces and help the public connect to the natural world close to home. I know Forest Preserves staff in every department are driven by a pride in being a part of that,” said General Superintendent Adam Bianchi. “This agreement addresses issues raised by Local 700 while allowing the Forest Preserves to remain on a sustainable fiscal path. We are eager to have all our dedicated employees together again to meet our shared mission.”
The agreement between the Forest Preserves and Local 700 to extend the existing contract includes a 2% raise in January 2026, another 2% in July 2026 and a 4% raise in July 2027, a one-time payment of $2,500 for full-time employees and $1,250 for seasonal employees, paid lunch and breaks, and changes for overtime pay rules, scheduling notification, shift assignment choices and reduction of weekend work.
The Forest Preserves remained fully open and operational throughout the strike and will continue to offer the people of Cook County opportunities to enjoy its trails, campgrounds, nature centers, picnic groves, golf courses, boating centers, events and programs, and more.
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