The City of Oakland says it has reached a tentative five-year contract with Firefighters Local 55. The deal, reached in mediation, includes wage increases totaling 16% over five years and a modest pension pickup, according to the city's announcement.
The city said pension and health costs are rising about 6% a year. Union members will vote on the agreement first, and then it goes to the full City Council. With this deal, the city says three of its seven bargaining tables are done.
A reluctant yes
The Oaklandside reported that Local 55 represents about 500 firefighters and that more than 15% of Oakland Fire Department jobs are unfilled. Union president Seth Olyer told the outlet the deal "doesn't come close" to what firefighters need, pointing to heavier workloads, older equipment, older safety gear and aging firehouses.
The Oaklandside also noted that the police contract, which gives officers 14% over five years, includes a "me too" clause. It isn't clear yet whether the firefighters' deal would trigger it.
The agreement comes as another city union, IFPTE Local 21, has set a one-day strike for Nov. 5.