TITLE
Recommendation to adopt resolution approving the 2022-2025 Memorandum of Understanding with the Long Beach Firefighters Association. (Citywide)
DISCUSSION
In accordance with discussions with the City Council, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) agreement has been reached with the Long Beach Firefighters Association (FFA) bargaining unit. The FFA represents approximately 396 employees in the Firefighters Association Basic and Supervisory units.
Since June 2022, City of Long Beach (City) management and FFA representatives have held nine negotiation sessions regarding a new MOU. The current MOU expired on September 30, 2022. A tentative agreement has been reached and jointly signed by representatives of the City and FFA.
The tentative agreement includes a phased-in approach for structural wage increases that are in part offset by having employees pay a portion of the City’s pension costs. The Public Employees’ Pension Reform Act (PEPRA) of 2013 and related changes to the Public Employees Retirement Law (PERL) allow cities to negotiate “cost-sharing” with their employee unions, which means employees agree to share in the cost of the employer contribution. The cost-share amounts are paid in addition to the member contribution rates and assist in curtailing the City’s growing pension expense. The mechanics of implementing the cost sharing provision are discussed further in this staff report.
The agreement includes several items that will assist the Fire Department in improving staffing capabilities such as increases to Paramedic and Firefighter II skill pays. These changes further align the Department with other agencies and increase Paramedic retention.
Tentative Agreement Major Provisions
The proposed MOU is for a three-year agreement from October 1, 2022, through September 30, 2025, and it includes the following major provisions:
1. General Wage Increase:
a. 5 percent effective October 8, 2022
b. 4 percent effective October 7, 2023
c. 3.5 percent effe...
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