Altoona, PA Local 299 has unanimously approved a new five-year contract with the city that brings major improvements in pay, staffing, health benefits, and working conditions.
“This contract is a testament to what can be accomplished when strong local leadership meets a city willing to invest in public safety,” said IAFF 4th District Vice President Andrew Pantelis. “Local 299’s success shows the power of unity, preparation, and persistence at the bargaining table. These gains – from staffing to wellness initiatives – don’t just benefit our members, they make Altoona a safer place to live.”
This contract is a testament to what can be accomplished when strong local leadership meets a city willing to invest in public safety.
4th district vice president andrew pantelis
The new contract delivers annual 4% pay raises, an increased HazMat incentive, a $325 cancer screening reimbursement, funding for six additional fire fighter hires, and $40,000 for new gym equipment across all four stations. It also guarantees a minimum of four hours of overtime pay for second-alarm callouts. Other key highlights include an increased sick leave incentive and the removal of the tiered pay system, allowing members to reach full fire fighter pay after a one-year probation.
The agreement will also raise staffing to 60, with a minimum of 11 personnel on duty at all times.
“With more predictable staffing and contractual guarantees, we’re optimistic that we’ll be able to run more three-person companies, moving us closer to our ultimate goal of achieving NFPA 1710 compliance with a four-person crew,” said Local 299 President Patrick Miller.
For Local 299, the contract marks a major step forward. “From competitive wage increases and improved OT pay, to health and wellness initiatives like cancer screenings and gym equipment, this contract reflects our commitment to both the financial and physical well-being of our members. The four-hour minimum OT callout is expected to further encourage participation in second-alarm responses,” said Miller.
Negotiations wrapped up in just four meetings and didn’t require labor attorneys, except for a final legal review.
“The negotiation process was smoother than any I’ve experienced in my nearly 10 years as Local 299 president,” said Miller. “Both the city and the Local came to the table with a shared goal of reaching a fair and effective agreement. Notably, we were able to reinstate key incentives for post-2014 hires – a major achievement.”
I would like to acknowledge the support of 4th District Vice President Andrew Pantelis, who made himself available for questions and offered guidance. We remain grateful and encourage all Locals to take full advantage of the resources the IAFF has to offer.
local 299 president patrick miller
Miller also recognized the IAFF’s support and resources provided throughout the negotiation process.
“I would like to acknowledge the support of 4th District Vice President Andrew Pantelis, who made himself available for questions and offered guidance. We remain grateful and encourage all Locals to take full advantage of the resources the IAFF has to offer,” said Miller.
