Imperial County Firefighters Association and Teamsters Union join forces for better wages

The Imperial County Firefighter’s Association is having a hard time recruiting and retaining firefighters. They say it’s because of the low pay. Sometimes as low as $11.77 per hour for entry level positions.

The Imperial County Firefighters Association and county workers united to protest the low wages they’re receiving. Officials from the firefighters association say they’re losing staff members, who are getting better pay elsewhere. “Just with our department alone, we use to have close to 15 paramedics. We’re down to…I believe it’s 7 now. Because these guys can go to other departments and just do the same job but make a lot more money,” said Rodney Fischer, Imperial County Firefighter Association President.

By joining forces, both unions hope to get their points across to the board of supervisors. Ruth Duarte, Teamster Union Leader said, “By uniting all together, we’re showing that there is support amongst the employees. That they do need a fair increase and it’s important because we’re all united.”

One member of the board of supervisors say that they’re listening but need all parties to work together, to make progress. John Renison, Supervisor District 1 said, “You know, pay is always going to be an issue. We do have to compensate our employees. We do have to look at salary increases. We are having a tough budget year. But we’re going to be able to do something. I mean we got some wiggle room. But we also need to make sure that they understand that we need their help and their support.”

Until a change is made in their wages, Fischer says, they’ll stand their ground for something fair and honest. “It’s hard to believe them when they say they care about their employees or that they appreciate them. Unless something equitable comes to the table, this is going to continue. We’re going to hold steady where we are.”