Deal made between Mayor Elorza and Providence Firefighters Union

By: News Staff

news@abc6.com

PROVIDENCE, RI – After a meeting held early Monday evening, the City of Providence reached a tentative agreement for a five year contract with the Providence Firefighters Union.

“I’m pleased to report that the City and the Firefighters Union have reached an agreement that is truly beneficial to all parties,” said Mayor Jorge Elorza.    

This agreement will revamp structural healthcare and retirement savings, while resolving several ongoing legal disputes between the city and the union.

It will also return Providence Fire fighters to a 4 platoon schedule with a reduced minimum manning of 88 fire fighters per shift (previously 94/shift).

“Not only have we created ongoing structural savings, we have made the fire department more sustainable and resolved recent debate over fire fighter scheduling. I am grateful to Chief Justice Frank Williams, Union President Paul Doughty, Public Safety Commissioner Steven Paré, City Solicitor Jeffrey Dana and all who worked to bring about this resolution. Working together, the city is now on a long-term sustainable path,” said Elorza.

The proposed contract will result in a $15 million savings over the next 5 years, in addition to substantial savings to be realized in healthcare and dental costs.

"It gives me great pleasure to announce that hell has frozen over," said Union President Paul Doughty after a year of federal lawsuits, protests and name calling.

“Today marks what the Providence Fire Fighters hope is a proposal that begins to address several significant issues facing both the city and the fire department,” said Doughty. “This proposal is just that, a proposal, but it is a positive step and I look forward to addressing the remaining issues with Mayor Elorza.” 

This agreement will go to IAFF Local 799 for review, and if approved, changes will go into effect November 1, 2016.

© WLNE-TV / ABC6 2016