Marathon Fire Fighters Demand Recognition

October 26, 2006 – The members of Marathon, FL Local 4396, with the support of fellow Florida fire fighters, are stepping up their battle to be recognized by the City of Marathon. On October 23, Local 4396 and fire fighters from around the region staged a peaceful picket after the City failed to make good on its promise to recognize Local 4396 lieutenant and captain bargaining units.

If the City continues to refuse to recognize Local 4396, Marathon fire fighters will conduct another, larger picket on November 14. “We organized two years ago, and City officials have been doing everything they can to force us to dissolve,” says Joe Forcine, president of Local 4396. “We are encouraging any IAFF member who can be there on November 14 to join us.”

The city manager and city council have threatened Local 4396 with everything from layoffs to privatization. “We know they do not want us to stay united,” says Forcine. “But, we will not back down from our right to bargain collectively.

“After the October 23 picket, it was clear that we had a significant effect with the city council,” continues Forcine. City council members have scheduled an executive meeting to discuss possible solutions.

IAFF members interested in supporting Marathon Local 4396 on November 14 should email lyner@bellsouth.net.