(WBBM NEWSRADIO) — The Chicago firefighters union reports a bit of progress during the most recent negotiating session this month and is hoping for more when the two sides meet again next month.
However, Chicago Fire Fighters Union Local 2 President Pat Cleary isn't holding his breath.
They're fighting for raises and more ambulances. The union estimates overtime for paramedics is about $1 million a month.
It's demanding at least 20 more ambulances to help ease the strain; sometimes none are available.
Paramedics are exhausted, Cleary says.
“We are! And pissed off!”
Cleary says somebody is going to die and that “the city knows this.”
He also notes that ambulances are revenue-generators.
"Well here's a revenue-generating idea, get more ambulances, they make you money."
He says even with "subpar collection, they still make money."
The firefighters and paramedics have gone nearly 3.5 without a contract.
"Give me a contract. [The mayor is] supposed to be a union organizer. Well, here's a union that serves the public 24-7 every day of the year and we don't have a contract. We haven't even had a pay raise since January of 2021. We worked all through COVID. We didn't sit at home like other workers."
The city says it's negotiating a new contract in good faith.
Listen to WBBM Newsradio now on Audacy!
Sign up and follow WBBM Newsradio
Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | TikTok