Mayor Hoydick Issues Statement On Firing Of Stratford Firefighters

STRATFORD, CT — Stratford Mayor Laura R. Hoydick issued a statement Friday in response to recent criticism from the Stratford firefighters’ union over the firing of two firefighters.

Stratford Professional Firefighters IAFF 998 President Steven H. Michalovic notified members in a letter on June 13 “with great concern and frustration” that Firefighters William Hertzog and Scot Sanford had been terminated that day.

Michalovic said Hertzog and Sanford have been out of work recovering from injuries sustained in the line of duty.

An “alleged failure to provide a definitive return-to-work date” was cited for their termination, according to Michalovic.

See also: Stratford Firefighters Fired ‘For Getting Hurt On The Job,’ Union President Says

Michalovic said the union “firmly believes these terminations violate the collecting bargaining agreement, are without just cause, and reflect a failure to follow the principles of fairness and progressive discipline.”

The union held a rally in support of Hertzog and Sanford at Stratford Town Hall from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday, June 20.

On Friday, Hoydick wanted to “clarify the circumstances and timeline that led to this difficult but necessary decision,” and released the following statement:

“I would like to thank both William Hertzog and Scot Sanford for their years of service with the Town of Stratford Fire Department as firefighters.

“Unfortunately, they are medically unable to return to duty after three and two years of Workers’ Compensation leave. Scot was injured in April of 2022 and William in February of 2023. The Town has paid them the difference in their salary and the workers compensation benefit for this time period while waiting for them to be released to return to full duty.

“As neither employee can provide a date certain to return to work in the near future after extended medical leaves of absence, the Administration advised the employees and their union that they had the options to retire or terminate their position. They chose not to retire so the Town terminated their employment. They remain eligible to retire and receive a pension and paid retiree medical insurance.

“As the Town has paid to cover their shifts at 1 and ½ pay per the union contract, the Town needs to fill these positions.

“I wish them well in their future endeavors.”