After years of work, Concord Township Professional Fire Fighters Local 5105 has signed its first collective bargaining agreement with the Concord Township Trustee and Advisory Board.
The agreement marks a major milestone for the 21-member Local and its relationship with the Township.
“Everybody’s ecstatic and excited about it,” Local 5105 President Miguel Nunez said. “No one really thought this was a possibility at this time.”
The three-year agreement includes a 15% wage increase, additional vacation time earned at shorter intervals, and improved maternity leave benefits, among other improvements.
“Congratulations to the members of Local 5105 on this important achievement,” said 8th District Vice President Mark Sanders. “Through hard work and determination, the Local has built a strong foundation for its members’ future success.”
Congratulations to the members of Local 5105 on this important achievement. Through hard work and determination, the Local has built a strong foundation for its members’ future success.
8th District Vice President Mark Sanders
For Local 5105, securing the agreement represents more than improved wages and benefits. It reflects years of organizing, building relationships, and working to give members a stronger voice through their union.
“This shows what we can achieve by working together, from the IAFF and state association to the Local. Collaboration and teamwork strengthen our union and deliver results,” Sanders said.
Building a stronger Local through union involvement
Nunez credits the IAFF and opportunities to connect with other union leaders for helping Local 5105 navigate the collective bargaining process.
“I attended several conferences and events downstate and talked with local union members. It really shed light on a lot of things,” Nunez said. “Through those classes and conversations with Local presidents, I also learned a lot about bargaining and related topics.”
The benefits extended far beyond the bargaining table. Nunez said the new agreement has also renewed interest in the union.
“We’ve actually had several people join the union since we’ve gotten the contract,” Nunez said.
With the first agreement in place, Nunez has advice for other smaller Locals: “I would suggest everybody go to these local conferences. Talk to your union leaders or contact the IAFF and just have multiple conversations with people who are in the same boat you’re in, even if some cities are a little bigger, and you’re a smaller municipality,” said Nunez.
