Sedgwick County, Kansas Firefighters Get a Raise

Dec. 10, 2004
Members of Sedgwick County Fire Department's union will receive a 4.5 percent raise over two years among other perks under a contract county commissioners approved this week.
Members of Sedgwick County Fire Department's union will receive a 4.5 percent raise over two years among other perks under a contract county commissioners approved this week.

Leaders with the International Association of Fire Fighters Local 2612 and county officials have been negotiating the two-year agreement since June, county lobbyist Mike Pepoon said.

Representatives from both sides said negotiations were challenging, but that they are pleased with the outcome.

Members originally asked for a three-year contract that included more vacation time for all employees, among other benefits, said union president Jeff Cowley.

Bob Lamkey, the county's director of public safety, said money was the reason the county could not meet many of those requests.

"We try to balance what they desire with what's affordable and what's comparable with the fire service in the area," he said.

The union includes nearly 100 firefighters and lieutenants.

Other contract provisions include an increase in tuition reimbursement from a $5,000 annual pool to $7,000 a year.

Employees also will receive a small increase in their uniform allowance to keep up with costs.

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