North Las Vegas firefighters concessions approved
The North Las Vegas City Council on Wednesday approved an agreement on contract concessions with the firefighters union that will save the city a projected $500,000 through the end of fiscal 2012.
The agreement gives the fire chief greater flexibility in staffing and restricts the number of battalion chiefs who can take leave at one time, which is expected to reduce overtime costs. The agreement runs through June 30.
The council approved the agreement 3-2, with Anita Wood and Robert Eliason in opposition. After the meeting, Wood said she thought the union should have offered more concessions.
"There's not much in there we weren't already doing," she said.
Jeff Hurley, president of the International Association of Firefighters Local 1607, did not return calls seeking comment.
The agreement gives the fire chief discretion in using "brownouts," periodically keeping some department vehicles out of service to save money. The city's Fire Department began implementing brownouts six months ago.
As part of the agreement, the union will dismiss a pending arbitration case concerning costs for firefighters' health insurance coverage.
Contact reporter Lynnette Curtis at lcurtis@reviewjournal.com or 702-383-0285.
