MANCHESTER, NH — Mayor Joyce Craig announced progress in the ongoing firefighters contract negotiations process. The union has accepted the city’s “last best offer” as a tentative agreement, so that it can be vetted by union members.
“We’ve worked hard and we’re on the verge of a tentative agreement with the fire fighter unions subject to approval of their membership and the BMA,” Craig said in a statement issued Sunday.
“This is an exciting development for the City and its firefighters. The agreement is fairly balanced and recognizes the hard work done by fire fighters through Safe Station. I’m glad we were able to come together and reach this agreement,” wrote Craig.
“I look forward to discussing this with the Aldermen at the October 2nd meeting. If acceptable, we will then share the terms with the general public.”
Local IAFF 856 Union President Jeff Duval issued the following statement about the tentative agreement:
“After two-and-a-half years of negotiations, our committee received what was termed a ‘best and final’ offer from the City. The committee has chosen to TA the offer to allow all 209 members to have a say on the offer,” wrote Duval.
