Hampden Firefighters (IAFF 4903) Win 24 Percent Increases in New Contract

PHOTO: Hampden firefighters. Courtesy of IAFF 4903.

The Hampden Professional Firefighters (IAFF 4903) have ratified a new three-year contract that includes a minimum of 24 percent wage increases. Under the contract, Hampden firefighter/paramedics are receiving an 18.5 percent pay increase in the first year with a minimum annual one percent raises over the following years or the chosen town Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U), whichever percentage is greater.

IAFF 4903 President Oliver Bianchi thanked Hampden Town Manager Paula Scott and a majority of the town council for working collaboratively with the union and supporting a good contract for the town’s dedicated firefighters.

“Negotiations went super smooth and what we got was very close to what we asked for,” said Bianchi. “The last few years with covid and everything [Scott has] really gone to bat for us and we are really thankful for the relationship that we have with her and the council. We’ve been very fortunate for what she’s done for us.”

In addition, Local 4903’s contract includes an extra position to shore up staffing during the week. The Hampden firefighters have also been able to win vehicle exhaust removal systems and cancers screenings for all members.