Niles firefighters reject 3-year pact

NILES — Firefighters overwhelmingly rejected a three-year contract with the city containing a wage freeze, while bargainers for Niles’ 25 police patrolmen declared an impasse and requested fact finding to help resolve differences.

“Two-thirds of our 28 firemen have voted the city’s offer down,” said Rodney Freel, president of Firefighters Local 320.

Freel indicated tonight his membership was particularly upset over changes in manning schedules.

“Currently, we have seven people on a turn in the winter and six in the summer,” Freel said. “The city wants it six year-round, and our membership is not happy about that.”

Freel said he would contact city bargainers, including Mayor Ralph Infante, to discuss returning to negotiations.

For the complete story, see Friday’s Vindicator and Vindy.com