San Antonio City Council Passes New Contract with Fire Union

The San Antonio City Council has approved a new collective bargaining agreement with the San Antonio Professional Firefighters Association, which will take effect from October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2027. The agreement features a substantial 20 percent wage increase for firefighters, with specific increments of seven percent in fiscal year 2025, eight percent in fiscal year 2026, and five percent in fiscal year 2027. Mayor Ron Nirenberg highlighted the contract as a pivotal moment in labor relations, celebrating the benefits it brings to firefighters and their families. City Manager Erik Walsh praised the contract for maintaining San Antonio firefighters' status as some of the highest-paid in Texas while ensuring essential city services are delivered. Additionally, the contract includes enhancements to the promotion process, greater accountability regarding sick leave, and improved parental leave benefits.

The City and the Fire Union engaged in 13 negotiation sessions, culminating in this agreement, which is particularly significant as it represents the first successful contract since 2009. The total financial impact of the contract is estimated at $109. 6 million over three years. The successful negotiation process reflects a commitment to both firefighter welfare and community service priorities.