EMPLOYMENT LAW: SJ Firefighters Try to Stop Layoffs through New Contract Proposal

August 1, 2010

San Jose - The San Jose firefighters union has submitted a new concession proposal to save some of the 49 firefighters who were laid off due to budget problems.

According to the president of San Jose Local 230, Randy Sekany, the department is trying to help the city save millions of dollars by coming up with a model of deploying firefighters. In addition, the union will also drop its plea of no layoffs.

Reports said the city required all workers to take a 10% salary reduction to end a $118 million budget gap.

The union had previously agreed to take increased health care premiums and co-pays, other types of health care coverage reductions, and a 5.25% salary reduction in lieu of layoffs.

However, the concessions failed and 49 firefighters were required to turn in their badges, safety equipment, and uniforms last Friday.