While negotiations are in the early stages, the El Paso firefighters’ proposed collective bargaining agreement would cost the city – and taxpayers – about $66 million over the contract’s four-year term if approved without changes.
In a proposal put forth April 7 by the El Paso Association of Firefighters Local 51, the union requested 12 increases for wages, compensation and incentive pay, including five new benefits. City leaders during an April 17 meeting with the union countered with a proposal that would have a financial impact of about $38 million.
The final agreement would set a compensation package for El Paso uniformed firefighters, paramedics and emergency medical technicians starting in the next fiscal year, which begins Sept. 1. The majority of the union’s more than 900 members must vote to approve the final agreement with the city, and the City Council would also vote whether to approve the contract. If the parties cannot come to an agreement, negotiations go into mediation or proposals to voters. The current agreement expires Aug. 31.
The Fire Department budget is $166 million – an increase of $9.5 million over last year, driven largely by salaries and benefits, according to the city’s 2025 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report…