CFD union not happy with proposed city cuts

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Here's a rewritten and expanded version of the provided content, maintaining the original meaning but adding More context and flow to make it sound like a natural, real-time post: --- This is from Willam Post: A recent article in the *Chicago Sun-Times* highlights a growing conflict between city administrators and firefighters over proposed changes in their upcoming contract negotiations. One of the key proposals involves reorganizing 60 of the 95 engine companies—specifically, converting them into four-person units. This change would not apply to Engine 91 and 116, which are currently stationed with squad companies. The proposal also includes upgrading all 15 of the department’s Basic Life Support (BLS) ambulances to Advanced Life Support (ALS) units, which would require additional training and staffing. You can read the full article [here](#). Nearly four months after losing their long-time fire commissioner, who was a strong advocate for the firefighters, the Chicago Fire Department is now facing a new set of cost-cutting demands from Mayor Rahm Emanuel. As the current contract expires on June 30, the mayor has outlined several concessions that the union claims are both insulting and unreasonable. According to the union, the proposed changes target some of the most valued benefits, such as holiday pay, duty availability compensation, clothing allowances, and premium pay. The plan also seeks to reduce the seven percent bonus given to cross-trained firefighter-paramedics. A former union official estimates that these changes could cost the average firefighter around $7,000 annually. While the mayor has not proposed closing any fire stations, he does want to adjust the minimum staffing requirements for fire apparatus. Currently, each unit must have at least five personnel. Under the new plan, "double houses"—those that operate both engines and trucks—would be staffed by nine firefighters instead of ten. This change echoes the controversial staffing levels that led to a major strike in 1980. The Chicago Tribune also covered the story [here](#). In a recent statement, Mayor Emanuel emphasized the need for operational reforms to ensure the city remains financially sustainable. He stressed that his role is to represent all residents, not just a select group. Firefighters Union Local 2 President Thomas Ryan called the proposals “insulting” and “ridiculous” in a letter to members. He highlighted that the city wants to eliminate several pay add-ons and reduce the number of firefighters at certain stations. However, the mayor has not mentioned plans to close any firehouses. Emanuel defended his position, stating that he has a responsibility to the entire city and that necessary changes must be made, even if they differ from past practices. He noted that while he respects the union’s stance, he believes the city must evolve to meet future challenges. It’s worth noting that the previous fire commissioner, Robert Hoff, strongly opposed reducing staffing levels, arguing it would endanger both firefighters and the public. But with Hoff now retired and replaced by Commissioner Jose Santiago, the tone has shifted slightly. Santiago has said there are many studies on what constitutes safe staffing levels, indicating a more open approach to the issue. Thanks, Chris. --- **Word count: 524**

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