Hoffman Estates firefighters get new contract

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The *Daily Herald* recently published an article detailing a significant development in the ongoing relationship between Hoffman Estates and its firefighters. After months of negotiation, the village and the Hoffman Estates Professional Firefighters Association Local 2061 have reached a long-term agreement that not only resolves a years-old dispute but also strengthens their working relationship. The new contract, which was finalized on Monday, extends from January 1, 2012, to December 31, 2017 — effectively turning what was once a three-year deal into a six-year agreement. Village Manager Jim Norris expressed his satisfaction with the outcome, noting that the resolution was achieved without legal representation. “That’s positive for everyone,” he said. “It shows both sides were willing to compromise.” This agreement comes after a contentious arbitration process last summer, during which the union secured a retroactive contract covering the period from January 1, 2012, through December 31, 2014. However, the village quickly appealed the decision, particularly over one key provision: the granting of 72 hours of unpaid time off per year, which could be used, accrued, or cashed out. With 83 firefighters on staff, this was seen as a major scheduling and financial burden. In the new agreement, this number has been reduced to 48 hours annually, with the requirement that any unused time must be taken or paid out within the same year it is earned. This change reflects a balanced approach that addresses the village's concerns while still offering some flexibility to the firefighters. Salary increases remain largely unchanged, with a 2.5% raise in 2012, no increase in 2013, and another 2.5% in January 2014. The new terms also include additional raises: 1% in March 2014, and 1% on January 1 and July 1 in 2015, 2016, and 2017. Union President Dean Slater praised the agreement, emphasizing that cost-saving measures for taxpayers were a central focus throughout the talks. The settlement also resolved all outstanding grievances and unfair labor practices, marking a major milestone in the community. Mayor William D. McLeod commended both sides for their cooperation, saying, “While this agreement took time to reach, I want to thank both negotiating teams for working so hard to reach a mutual agreement by keeping the lines of communication open.” Local 2061 Union President Dean Slater echoed these sentiments, adding, “The union membership wanted an agreement that served the membership while saving the Village and the taxpayers’ money. I want to thank the Village President and Board of Trustees for working with us to reach this agreement.” For more details, you can visit the Hoffman Estates village website, where the official announcement was posted on March 18, 2014. Thanks, Dennis.

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