LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Louisville firefighters are now making 12% more than they were this weekend after approving a new union contract with Metro Government.
It's the same offer union members first rejected in May. But over the weekend, officials said members voted to approve the contract.
The city's firefighters have been working without a new contract for months, as the previous two-year contract expired one year ago on July 1, 2023.
The deal approved this weekend includes a 24% pay increase over five years. It's retroactive, meaning it will cover the last year when firefighters were without a deal.
The 460 members will receive a lump sum check of at least $5,000 later this summer to make up the difference, according to leadership with the Louisville Professional Firefighters Local 54.
When rejecting the offer in May, union members said it didn't address critical needs, like repairs to rundown firehouses.
While not much substantially changed in the second vote, more members cast a ballot this time, and around 60% said yes.
According to the union, that was because members were concerned about the political climate.
Mayor Craig Greenberg's proposed budget for the Louisville Division of Fire was just under $90 million, but Metro Council cut about $1 million from that budget before approving the city's new spending plan last month.
Greenberg released a statement following the contract approval.
"I am incredibly grateful for the hard work our firefighters put in every day to keep us safe and I am pleased they approved their new contract. This contract provides historic 24% raises over the next several years, including an immediate 7% raise to help the department recruit and retain the best firefighters in the city. Thank you to the members of Louisville Fire Department."
With 13 council seats up for grabs this November, union leaders said they didn't want to lose more ground with continued negotiations.
Greenberg and Metro Council still have to sign off on the deal, but no roadblocks are expected.
Previous Coverage:
- Louisville Metro Council passes mayor's $1.1 billion city budget
- Short dozens of firefighters, Louisville Fire Department makes push to fill 2024 academy class
- Louisville Fire officials say department needs $31 million to catch up on deferred maintenance
- Negotiations paused for now between city and Louisville firefighters' union
- Louisville firefighters reject city's proposed 5-year contract in close vote
- Louisville firefighters frustrated with deferred maintenance after 10-year-old rope used in bridge rescue
- Louisville firefighters working without a contract while city ignores aging stations, equipment
