SPRINGFIELD -- A lengthy and bitter labor dispute in Effingham could be nearing an end.

The union representing about 40 counselors and other workers at Heartland Human Services has reached a tentative contract agreement with Heartland management.

If ratified, the pact will end an impasse that has stretched more than two years.

"The fight for fairness and justice for Heartland workers has been long and hard, but our members never wavered," noted Henry Bayer, executive director of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees Council 31, which represents the workers.

"We feel we're closer than we've ever been," said Jeff Bloemker, a member of Heartland's board of directors.

The Effingham-based non-profit organization offers mental health and addictions counseling services. Workers went on strike in search of a new contract in July 2007. They were turned away when they attempted to return to work a year later.

A vote on ratifying the contract will come later in the week. Details of the agreement will be released pending approval.

If the board approves the contract, it will next face the task of convincing state officials to restore funding.

"We'd like to hope that one would complement the other," Bloemker said.