Your Voice Matters-Upcoming Contract Negotiations
Brothers and Sisters,
As we approach our next round of contract negotiations, I want to keep you informed and engaged in the process. Our union is strongest when every member has a voice, and right now we need to hear from you.
We’ve solicited feedback already, but so far we’ve received limited responses. These negotiations will directly impact your career, your pay, and your future in the fire service. Please don’t miss the chance to shape the priorities that your negotiations team brings to the table.
One example under consideration is the addition of an Engineer position, designated with a 5% increase to base wages. This wouldn’t apply to everyone at once, but every firefighter would have the opportunity to promote into the position as openings occur—just as with other promotions in the fire service. Remember, there are numerous ways to implement a program like this, and like any well-crafted plan, it will inevitably encounter challenges.
But this is only one option. If you don’t feel this is the right direction, then we need to know: What alternative do you believe would most benefit our membership? Whether it’s pay structure, specialty pay, scheduling, or another creative solution, your input will help us set the path forward. When you make a suggestion, please include how you believe it will impact the financial bargaining process (costs/savings and leverage at the table) and how it would improve or fit into our contract language—so we can evaluate and advance your idea effectively.
The negotiations team—your fellow members, including myself as your president—has one priority: to advocate for improvements that make a real difference in your lives. To do that effectively, we need your ideas, your concerns, and your direction.
Please take a few minutes to reply with your thoughts. No suggestion is too small, and every opinion matters. Direct responses to myself or the negotiations team (Connell, Lewis, O’Donnell, Friis, Hough) Let’s work together to make sure our contract reflects the value of the work we do every single day.
In solidarity,
Ryan Freed
President, Local 1352
Ryan Freed
President Local 1352
Valley Professional Firefighters
1951 R St SE Auburn, WA 98002
206-919-5867