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The new ten-year contract retroactively covers all terms of employment for Yonkers firefighters, dating back to July 1, 2009, and will extend through June 30, 2019. Spano and Local 628, the sixth union out of eight municipal contracts that has recently settled with the City, agreed to the contract last month.
“This is a contract that works for workers and Yonkers taxpayers, and I am proud to say that we got it done,” said Spano. “I applaud the fire union’s leadership for negotiating in good faith and agreeing to a contract that is fair to our firefighters but also reflects the reality of our economic times.”
Contract reforms saving taxpayer dollars include a 20 percent reduction in starting salaries for new hires, plus the addition of an extra year to the salary steps necessary for achieving top pay. Stricter procedures for sick-leave incentives have been instituted and “light duty” procedures have been agreed to for firefighters returning to work after an injury. Additionally, reforms have been made to the protocols for filing and arbitrating on-the-job injury claims.
The new contract calls for a 23.5 percent salary increase over ten years. Under the new agreement, 628 members will see an increase in longevity, health insurance opt out and EMS stipends.
“Our agreement with 628 shows that when the city and union leaders come together – in true good faith – we can achieve compromise, savings and reforms, and do it all in a way that works for the taxpayers and workforce. I want to thank our courageous firefighters for their commitment to making Yonkers the best city to live, work and play in,” said Mayor Spano.
“This fair contract came about after an arduous negotiating process. There have been givebacks and concessions from both sides. Ultimately, we have achieved a fiscally sound contract for Yonkers taxpayers and for Yonkers’ bravest,” said Council President Liam McLaughlin.
Local 628 is made up more than over 300 Yonkers firefighters. The remaining unions to settle a contract with the City of Yonkers are the Yonkers UFOA Fire Officers and Local 456-Teamsters, White collar Unit.
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