KOKOMO, Ind. -- Hundreds of supporters of the Kokomo Fire Department packed City Hall Monday night to push city leaders to meet the contract demands of the city’s firefighters.
But the meeting ended abruptly after city leaders decided not to take public comment on the matter.
In an impromptu address outside the building, Local 396 President Chris Frazier said he’s optimistic his words got through to the City Council.
“I think they are hearing things that are actually from us,” said Frazier. “Because they’re not getting the spin that’s coming from the city administration.”
READ | Kokomo firefighters are working without a contract
The union says its asking for better insurance coverage for retired and active firefighters.
“It’s sad that we have to even think about getting retirees insurance and health insurance that are decent and not get a raise in three years,” said Frazier.
But Corporation Counsel Beth Copeland says the big turnout Monday evening doesn’t change the facts.
“This is not the proper jurisdiction. This board does not have the authority to do what President Frazier is asking,” said Copeland. “I can say for certain that all of those people don’t know all the intimate details.”
For the first time ever, Kokomo firefighters are working without a labor contract after a judge ruled in the city’s favor late last year when union leaders tried to force a contract dispute into the hands of a third-party moderator.
For now, firefighters are working as at-will city employees.
“Our members will show up every day and give you all that we have,” said Frazier. “Show up at your house and do whatever it takes to get the job done. This kind of pressure changes things for us. For the public safety of the people of Kokomo.”
The city called for an emergency meeting on Sunday after coming up with a contract offer, but union members voted to reject that offer.
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