2-Year Agreement Reached Between Polk County, Firefighters Union

POLK COUNTY, FL — Polk County and members of the International Association of Firefighters Union 3531 bargaining unit have reached a tentative two-year agreement on wages and benefits.

The agreement is subject to approval by the Polk County Commission at the July 25 meeting and by ratification of union members.

The previous contract expired Sept. 30, 2022. If ratified and approved, the new contract will be in effect until Sept. 30, 2024.

“I am pleased that we were able to respectfully work together to find a solution that is mutually beneficial to our valued first responder employees and county administration,” said Deputy County Manager for Public Safety Joe Halman. “We have agreed upon a contract that is fair and reasonable and continues to build a productive and positive long-term relationship between the board and our first responders.”

Polk County Fire Rescue responds to more than 100,000 calls for fire and emergency medical services each year.

PCFR provides advanced life support transport to all residents and visitors in the county as well as fire suppression, rescue and fire prevention services to all unincorporated Polk County and the municipalities of Eagle Lake, Polk City, Mulberry, Lake Hamilton and Hillcrest Heights.

Polk County Fire Rescue has nearly 700 full-time sworn and civilian employees.