By TEREASA NIMS
Sunday Times Newspapers
ALLEN PARK – City council members recently unanimously passed motions pertaining to fire and police department negotiations following a closed session.
The resolutions have been in the works for months with the council and the respective unions trying to reach an agreement. On March 10, the council met in closed session and adopted the resolutions immediately after in open session.
The International Association of Fire Fighters Local 1410 filed grievances saying members were entitled to 10 paid holidays and hazardous duty pay (rescue allowance). City Council members agreed to five holidays and no hazardous duty pay.
Fire Chief Doug LaFond said the union may appeal the decision; however, the council members don’t anticipate a change in the resolution.
The council hasn’t reached an agreement with the Allen Park Police Lieutenants and Sergeants Association regarding their terms and conditions of employment, but passed a resolution to continue negotiations.
Councilman Dennis Hayes said the city’s negotiation team headed by the city administrator will reach out to the Allen Park Police Officers Association and the Allen Park Lieutenants and Sergeants Association to attempt to reach an agreement.
Mayor William Matakas said the city attempted to reach an agreement with police that was consistent with the fire department’s resolution. It’s unknown when the item will appear before the city council again.
(Tereasa Nims can be reached at [email protected].)