“This shows how we can collectively work together.”
Grand Rapids City Manager Mark Washington says increased compensation in the new 3-year agreement with the firefighters’ union is essential.
“With the growth of our city it is essential to have this component of public safety supported. There are some big things planned in our fire department with new stations that are opening, and a new training center. “
“We have agreement for 11 percent over the next 3 years.”
City labor relations manager Stacey Moody says the contract calls for a five-percent raise in years one and two, a one-percent raise in year three and at the end of year three a shorter work week.
“The work week to be reduced from the current 52.88 hours down to a 50.4 of a work week.”
There are 230 union firefighters in the city. Under this contract a first-year firefighter will earn a base salary of about 55 thousand dollars a year. Mayor David LaGrande:
“My understanding the union has agreed to this in principle?”
“Correct.”
“Thanks to the chief and all of his team for engaging in what was I think very productive.”
