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City of Vancouver, Washington

 Two more city fire unions give up wage increases

Friday, April 24, 2009
Contact: Elizabeth Gotelli, Human Resources Director, (360)619-1005

Vancouver City Council will consider approving bargaining agreements next week with two fire unions –Fire Marshal's Office and Fire Command – which include provisions for no cost of living increases or market adjustments in 2009. The two-year agreement with Fire Marshal's Office personnel also provides for no cost of living or market adjustments in 2010.

In presenting the collective bargaining agreements to the Council for their approval during their meeting Monday April 27 McDonnell said, "I am grateful to these employees for their financial sacrifice during this time of financial stress for our community."

The total cost savings to the city of the two agreements represents a combined savings to the city of up to $106,700 in personnel costs McDonnell noted. "By giving up any wage increases for this year the two unions are helping the city meet its financial challenges during this unprecedented time," McDonnell stated.

International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) Local, 452, Fire Marshal's Unit, represents 13 employees, and IAFF Local 4378, Fire Command, represents 7 employees.

Vancouver Fire Chief Don Bivins said, "I have the privilege of working with these high caliber people every day.  I'm glad that now the community can also see what selfless, dedicated people they are in serving our community."

Earlier this year IAFF Local 452, representing 164 firefighters, agreed to waive a previously negotiated cost of living increase for 2009 which resulted in a savings of more than $700,000 to the city.

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