The Courier-News recently covered a story about how Carpentersville managed to save two firefighter positions from layoffs. This outcome came as a result of collaborative efforts between village administrators and the union representing International Association of Fire Fighters Local 4790.
Thanks to negotiations, the jobs of two firefighters who were initially slated for layoffs have been preserved. The village is facing a budget deficit of approximately $400,000, prompting officials to propose cuts that included eliminating two full-time firefighter roles as well as three civilian positions. Additionally, four part-time vacancies across different departments will not be filled.
Following the news of these potential layoffs, union members initiated discussions with village leaders to explore ways to retain the firefighter positions without compromising the village's financial stability. In response, village officials released a statement indicating that the negotiations led to an agreement altering work schedules. Under this new arrangement, designated 'swing shift' employees will cover shifts left vacant due to other employees taking vacations or authorized leave. These changes eliminate the need for overtime payments typically required when regular firefighters fill such gaps, resulting in an estimated annual savings of $85,000.
Carpentersville Village Manager Mark Rooney emphasized that reducing staff or services to tackle budget deficits is always considered a final option. He noted that if the modified schedule proves effective, there will be no further layoffs of full-time firefighters throughout the current collective bargaining period, which concludes in 2016.
In return, the union withdrew a grievance filed last month challenging the village's decision to cut two firefighter posts. Lt. Rick Nieves, president of International Association of Fire Fighters Local 4790, expressed relief at the resolution. He acknowledged ongoing challenges, stating, "Previously, we had 13 firefighters on duty daily, but now it drops to 10 on certain days. While progress has been made, there is still more work ahead with the village."
It’s worth noting that since 2010, the number of full-time employees in the village has decreased from 207 to 175 following organizational restructuring, layoffs, and unfilled positions. Personnel and labor expenses constitute around 70% of the village's total operational costs, according to Rooney.
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