The Oconto County Board has approved a two-year contract with the union that represents 26 patrol deputies and investigators for the sheriff’s office. The current contract expired Dec. 31, and the union and county have been negotiating for about six months. Union members will receive a percent pay hike for 2018 and a 2 percent hike plus 10 cents per hour in 2019. The total extra cost, including fringe benefits, is about $127,000. The new contract provides an updated definitions and requirements for training and a $400 uniform allowance. Negotiations with the union representing four lieutenants at the sheriff’s office continue.