Buffalo Grove, firefighters reach agreement on new 5-year contract

Paid parental leave and a village contribution toward cancer screenings are among the benefits included in a new contract between Buffalo Grove and its firefighter union.

The approval Monday by the village board was unanimous.

The union ratified the agreement June 9.

“We all up here respect and appreciate our firefighters and paramedics,” Village President Eric Smith said. “Thank you to the union and the rank and file for a very amicable, respectful negotiation that has resulted in a long-term contract.”

Under the new agreement, firefighter/paramedics and entry-level firefighter/emergency medical technicians will receive a 4.5% pay increase, while fire lieutenants will see a 3.5% increase.

The village will contribute up to $10,000 annually for cancer screenings.

Firefighters will also receive an additional floating holiday, adding to their existing holiday benefits.

In addition, the parental leave policy will provide employees with five 24-hour shifts following the birth of a child or placement of a child through adoption or foster care.

The sides also agreed to allow firefighters to perform part-time work as educators, fleet maintenance workers or fire inspectors at reduced overtime rates.

A memorandum of understanding establishes a joint committee between the village and the union to discuss creating a regular, non-shift firefighter position.

Firefighter/paramedic pay starts at just under $78,000 annually and can reach more than $127,000 after seven years of service.