The Polk County Board of County Commissioners has approved a new, three-year collective bargaining agreement (CBA) with I.A.E.P. Local 917 R-5.
Commissioners unanimously approved the new contract on Tuesday, Dec. 16. The agreement covers bargaining units for single-certified emergency medical technicians (EMT) and paramedics. It will remain in effect through Sept. 30, 2028.
Polk County Fire Rescue EMTs and paramedics have secured an increase in pay and an improved shift schedule under the new CBA. As part of the three-year agreement, bargaining unit members will transition from a 56-hour work week to a 48-hour work week on or before Oct. 1, 2026.
The schedule change is supported by the addition of a “Kelly Day” each 21-day cycle. This new schedule offers bargaining unit members a paid 24-hour shift off every three weeks with no impact on salary…