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Union representing Chicago firefighters, medics issues no-confidence vote on leadership

Members of Local 2 issued the vote after going without a contract or raise since June 2021

CHICAGO — The union representing Chicago’s firefighters, EMTs and paramedics unanimously passed a vote of no confidence in the leadership of the Chicago Fire Department. The decision comes after nearly three and a half years without a new contract.

Patrick Cleary, President of the Chicago Fire Fighters Union Local 2, confirmed the outcome of the Dec. 12 vote, CBS Chicago reported.

In a letter shared on the union’s Facebook page, Cleary pointed out that while firefighters were battling a blaze at the County Building and City Hall on Dec. 11, the city’s contract negotiators “seemed unprepared to address any of the contract issues that Local 2 leadership had presented months, and in some cases years, in advance.”

The union also highlighted staffing shortages within the department, reporting that up to 35 fire trucks and engines are operating with only four firefighters instead of the standard five.

Additionally, the union has been urging the city to add 20 more ambulances, along with the paramedics and EMTs needed to staff them, arguing that the current ambulance fleet is insufficient.

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Bill Carey is the associate editor for FireRescue1.com and EMS1.com. A former Maryland volunteer firefighter, sergeant, and lieutenant, Bill has written for several fire service publications and platforms. His work on firefighter behavioral health garnered a 2014 Neal Award nomination. His ongoing research and writings about line-of-duty death data is frequently cited in articles, presentations, and trainings. Have a news tip? He can be reached at news@lexipol.com.