At last night's meeting, Big Rapids City Commissioners unanimously approved a three-year contract with the International Association of Firefighters Local No. 1776.

The agreement is highlighted by wage increases in the increments of 4% in 2025, 3.5% in 2026, and 3% in 2027.

"(We) didn't always agree on everything, but it was always professional and I just appreciate them," City Manager Mark Gifford said. "(In) the time we spent in negotiations, I think we got to where we needed to be."

Terms of the contract will be in effect until June 30, 2028. Other benefits include bi-annual physicals and cancer screenings. The City will also match a 2.5% contribution in the firefighters' 457 retirement account, similar to police officers.

"The cancer screenings were paramount," Union President Sean Wethington said. "We're dealing with PFAS and other carcinogens every day when we go to structure fires and stuff like that. They're seeping into our skin through our gear. Testicular cancer, thyroid cancer, and all sorts of skin cancers are also coming up, so that was big for us."

Military time will also now be counted towards longevity and vaccation accrurals.

More details of the contract can be found in the meeting packet here: June 16 City Commission Meeting Packet.