What the Local 718 Contract Means for Boston

Andrew Ryan reports that the city could save $45M from the compromise.  That's compared to the arbitrator's decision.

City officials said the new contract gives most firefighters raises worth more than 17 percent over five fiscal years, from 2006 through 2011; when calculated through the next fiscal year, 2012, the raises amount to 20.5 percent.

“The changes that were made were healthy for the taxpayers, healthy for . . . the city’s financial condition, and healthy for the firefighters in the City of Boston,’’ said Edward A. Kelly, president of the International Association of Fire Fighters Local 718.

Michael Levenson has more details.  Firefighters will receive their back pay in one lump sum, averaging $29,000, over the next three or four months.

Kay Lazar reports that doctors aren't entirely pleased with their part of the deal.  They argue that while it's awesome that new hires will have to pass physicals every year, the veteran firefighters have a greater health risk.

Dave Wedge reports that Boston Municipal Research Bureau president Sam Tyler is worried about what this means for other unions.

“We’re very concerned about raising the bar for the next round of collective bargaining contracts, particularly with police and teachers,” said Boston Municipal Research Bureau president Sam Tyler. “I think we still have that same concern.”

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