The Associated Press
VANCOUVER, Wash. — Firefighters in Vancouver, Wash., say they will forgo a 4 percent pay increase in 2009 because of the tough economic times facing the city.
The Vancouver Firefighters Union says its 164 members voted 91 percent in favor of giving up the pay hike, for a savings estimated at $700,000.
Union President Mark Johnston says the average firefighter will give up almost $4,300 in additional salary and benefits for 2009.
Mayor Royce Pollard praised the firefighters, and challenged the city’s other unions to follow their lead.
Vancouver Fire Chief Don Bivins says the savings will ensure the city will open and fully staff a new fire station in east Vancouver in January 2010.
The Vancouver Fire Department serves 241,000 people in a 92-square-mile area, and is the fourth-largest department in Washington.