Commission ratifies new contract for Orange County Fire Rescue personnel

The Orange County Board of County Commissioners approved a collective-bargaining agreement with local firefighters on the meeting's consent agenda May 19.

Union leaders told the board the agreement represents years of bargaining and was ratified by membership. Chris Richie, who identified himself as representing the Orange County Firefighters Association Local 257, called the agreement "historic," saying it restores competitiveness, improves benefits and creates a more predictable pay scale that will help retain experienced firefighters and emergency personnel.

County administration said the contract includes wage improvements and step progression changes intended to improve recruitment and retention. County staff corrected three minor technical language items in the version published to the board before the vote; the board approved the consent package and the contract unanimously.

Why it matters: Local emergency services officials said the contract will strengthen retention and training continuity, which the county framed as an investment in public safety and in reducing the long-term costs of turnover.

Next steps: County human resources and Fire Rescue will carry out implementation and communicate changes to employees; the board and staff said they will continue collaborative labor relations work.