ALMOST 450 City of Everett employees said “yes” in September to a three-year contract that lasts from this year through 2007.

Bargaining on the contract — which covers most of the city’s employees except transit drivers, firefighters and police officers — began in the summer of 2004.

The Local 113 membership rejected the contract in June 2005. But, after further bargaining brought a requested change to the prescription drug benefit, it was accepted.

Among the provisions in the new contract:

Cost-of-living increases equal to 100 percent of the Seattle consumer price index in the first two years and in 2007 a tiered rate from 90 percent — if it is 3.5 percent — to 100 percent — if it is below 2.5 percent.

Continuing 100 percent employer-paid medical benefits, although modifications were made to the medical plan.

Partial buyback of sick leave upon separation.

An additional floating holiday.

A $5 increase per month to longevity rates plus an added threshold at 28 years.

Dental benefits are doubled from $1,000 to $2,000 a year.

Members of the negotiation team in addition to Staff Representative Rob Sprague included: Local 113 President Monte Turner, Vice President Carolyn Johnston, Greg Ahles, Cameron Johnson, Ross Johnson and Bernie Kearney.