New Petition Supports Fairfield Fire Union As Contract Talks Continue

FAIRFIELD, CT — As contract negotiations continue between the Fairfield firefighters union and the town, a petition was launched this week seeking to garner fair wages for Fairfield's Bravest.

Organized Change.org by resident Lynn Moore, the petition laments the amount of days since the June 30, 2021, expiration of the previous union contract.

"Waiting for over 552 days for their contract to be renewed is unconscionable!" the petition reads. "Sign this petition to bring the Town's attention to this matter and get them paid!"

As of Friday, it had garnered more than 200 signatures, with a goal of reaching at least 500.

The town and Fairfield fire union, IAFF Local 1426, have been negotiating since March 2021, but have been unable to reach an agreement.

In the meantime, the union's 90-plus members have been working under the previous contract, which stays in effect until a new pact is finalized.

Union President Bill Tuttle told Patch that the two sides have entered a new phase of negotions.

"We are in arbitration. No movement with town," Tuttle said in an email, adding that the union appreciates Moore's support and involvement.

Under the arbitration, the two sides present their case to an arbitration panel, but the process can take a long time.

In a statement to Patch, First Selectwoman Brenda Kupchick said the two sides are continuing to talk, but she is "continually dismayed" by some of the social media posts by the union. The union's Facebook page can be viewed here.

"I am continually dismayed by the Fire Union’s misleading social media posts, while we are actively engaged in negotiations, both formally through arbitration and off the record," Kupchick said. "The rules of arbitration and good faith negotiation prohibit both parties from commenting on the proceedings and in good faith I have abided by those boundaries. I join our Fairfield Firefighters in wanting a resolution of a fair contract - fair for the department and fair for the taxpayers we serve."

The petition sums up what firefighters deal with in order to do their jobs.

"They perform job functions that place them at greater risk for muscular-skeletal injury, long-term illnesses, CANCER or untimely early death. Unlike the private sector, they cannot climb from job to job seeking better working conditions, higher wages, and better benefits. Their families shouldn’t be under-compensated for their dedication to service and our community."

Click here to view the Change.org petition.