7/01/09

       Brothers and Sisters,

                    As a member of the bargaining team I would like to thank Pres. Armstrong for his  strong leadership during negotiations.I would also like to thank Sec./Treas. J.Dwyer, Don Courtney and Frank Raffa for all their efforts and educated points of view.I would also like to thank the E-Board for their guidence and most importantly the membership for its overwhelming support for ratification.

                   It is my understanding the city council will not vote on funding this contract until 7/28/09. Do not use your new Health Insurance cards until we are notified to do so.It could be as late as September 1.Your clothing check($1050) will begin being mailed shortly after funding of the contract.(providing you have passed your UNIFORM Inspection)

                  Our structural fire fighting gear inspection will take place sometime in the fall/winter.Their are still a number of issues to resolve,be patient. As of now you should be wearing your SAFEST gear that you own.Leaving it hanging in your locker will only get you burned or worse.Don't be an idiot, protect yourself with the best gear that you own.This is not a money issue,it is a saftey issue.

    VP Doug Courville