Mount Prospect approves 2 percent raises for firefighters
Mount Prospect firefighters will receive 2 percent annual pay hikes through 2018 under the terms of a new three-year contract village trustees approved this week with the firefighters' union.
Under the deal with Mount Prospect Firefighters Union Local 4119 International Association of Firefighters, firefighter/paramedics would earn a top salary of $95,000 in 2016, $97,000 in 2017 and $98,000 in 2018. Lieutenant/paramedics at top grade would move to $109,139, $115,330 and $117,526 in 2016, 2017 and 2018, respectively.
The union represents 66 firefighter/paramedics in the village.
Other provisions of the contract include the addition of Christmas Eve as a holiday, an increase in the uniform allowance, and longevity pay increases for milestone years.
Village Manager Michael Cassady said firefighters will contribute more toward insurance as part of the agreement.
"We're trying to get to a 15-percent employee contribution for self-insurance. Currently, (it is) at about 11.35. We have made significant headway to get there in this agreement," he said.
Mount Prospect Fire Department Deputy Chief John Dolan thanked the village board for its support and patience.
"What I'm most proud of is we have now language that will give educational incentives for certain certifications," he added.