El Paso Firefighters Union and City Clash Over Pay Negotiations Ahead of Deadline

Negotiations between the City of El Paso and the firefighters' union are ongoing as they approach an August 31 deadline for a new labor contract. The union is pushing for approximately $66 million in pay and benefits over four years, while the city's counteroffer stands at about $38 million, highlighting a significant financial gap. Key issues include annual pay increases and insurance benefits, with the union president stating they are about 75% through the negotiation process. If an agreement is not reached by the deadline, the current contract will remain in effect until new terms are approved. The next negotiation session is scheduled for June 25.

Key Details: • Next negotiation session set for June 25. • Current contract expires on August 31. • Union seeks $66 million; city offers $38 million. • Preliminary Fire Department budget for next fiscal year is $168 million.