HomeMy WebLinkAbout11261Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
ORDINANCE NO. 11261
AN ORDINANCE APPROVING AND ENACTING THE
COLLECTIVE BARGAINING AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY
OF PUEBLO AND THE INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF
FIRE FIGHTERS LOCAL NO. 3 COMMENCING JANUARY 1,
2027 AND AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO EXECUTE SAME
WHEREAS, pursuant to the requirement of Section 8-14, City Charter, the corporate
authorities of the City of Pueblo and the sole and exclusive bargaining agent of the fire fighters,
i.e. the International Association of Fire Fighters Local No. 3, have negotiated a collective
bargaining agreement commencing January 1, 2027 (the "Labor Agreement"); and
WHEREAS, the Labor Agreement has been reduced to writing and signed by said
parties pursuant to the requirements of Section 8-14(l) of the Charter, City of Pueblo, Colorado;
and
WHEREAS, Section 8-14(l) of the Charter of the City of Pueblo, Colorado, further
requires that the Labor Agreement be enacted as an Ordinance; NOW THEREFORE,
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF PUEBLO, that
SECTION 1 _
The Collective Bargaining Agreement between the City of Pueblo and the International
Association of Fire Fighters Local No. 3 commencing January 1, 2027, a copy of which is
attached hereto, having been approved as to form by the City Attorney, is hereby approved and
enacted as an Ordinance.
SECTION 2.
The Mayor is authorized to execute the Collective Bargaining Agreement in the name of
the City, and the City Clerk is authorized to affix the seal of the City thereto and attest same.
SECTION 3.
The officers and staff of the City are authorized to perform any and all acts consistent
with the intent of this Ordinance to effectuate the policies and procedures described herein.
SECTION 4.
This Ordinance shall become effective on the date of final action by the Mayor and City
Council.
Action by City Council:
Introduced and initial adoption of Ordinance by City Council on August 24, 2026.
Final adoption of Ordinance by City Council on September 14, 2026. DocuSignedby:
President of City Council
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
Action by the Mayor:
R Approved on
❑ Disapproved on
09/15/2026
based on the following objections:
Action by City Council After Disapproval by the Mayor:
❑ Council did not act to override the Mayor's veto.
❑ Ordinance re -adopted on a vote of
on
Mayor
❑ Council action on failed to override the Mayor's veto.
President of City Council
ATTEST by:
FiD;0GISigned
City Clerk ..
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
City Clerk's Office Item # R6
COUNCIL MEETING DATE: September 14, 2026
TO: President Mark Aliff and Members of City Council
CC: Mayor Heather Graham
VIA: Clyde Bishop, City Clerk
FROM: Heather Graham, Mayor
SUBJECT: AN ORDINANCE APPROVING AND ENACTING THE COLLECTIVE
BARGAINING AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF PUEBLO AND
THE INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF FIRE FIGHTERS LOCAL NO.
3 COMMENCING JANUARY 1, 2027 AND AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR
TO EXECUTE SAME
SUMMARY:
Attached is a proposed Ordinance which would approve and enact the collective
bargaining agreement between the City of Pueblo and the International Association of
Fire Fighters Local No. 3 ("Union") commencing January 1, 2027. Pursuant to §8-14(l)
of the City Charter, any collective bargaining agreement negotiated between the Union
and the City shall be reduced to writing, signed by the parties, and enacted by
Ordinance.
PREVIOUS COUNCIL ACTION:
Not Applicable.
BACKGROUND:
The current collective bargaining agreement between the City and Union expires on
December 31, 2026. Pursuant to the requirements of the City Charter, the City and
Union commenced negotiations with respect to a successor contract in July of this year.
Through the negotiation process, the parties have negotiated a collective bargaining
agreement with respect to a successor contract.
The successor contract contains the following specific substantive changes with respect
to the prior contract:
Article 10 — Wages. A zero wage increase for 2027. EMO promotional pay schedule
increase from 110% to 113% of Fire Fighter, Captain (Administration) differential pay
was converted and increased from a dollar amount ($550) to a percentage (10%). EMT-
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
I incentive pay was increased from 1 % to 1.25% but for all firefighters not just engineers
Article 18. Adjust step up pay from a fixed dollar amount to 7% of the promoted
position but not to exceed the promoted position.
Article 22. Subject to annual appropriation, provides for annual purchase of bunker gear
at the rate of 20% of firefighters which is City's current practice for such gear which
generally has a 5 year life cycle.
Article 24. Health Insurance. Recognize current practice to allow (similar to police) a
retiree to retain coverage provided they assume the full cost of premiums. Added a
provision providing for payment of annual contribution to the Voluntary Firefighter
Cancer Benefit's Program subject to the State continuance of funding such Trust.
Article 28. Sick Leave. Removed all sick leave abuse provisions as properly a
management right and to avoid any arguable conflict with HFWA.
Article 29. Union Leave. Union leave available to members of the e -board as opposed
to principal officers.
Article 41. New subsection requiring any firefighter who will obtain a paramedic
certification to keep and maintain the certification for at least 8 years of employment
with the City.
Article 51 — Duration of Agreement. The term of the agreement is for 1 year.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS:
Total cost in the amount of $ 361,267.40 based on the following items
- $121,073.88 EMO promotional pay schedule increase from 110% to 113%
-$20,414.59 Admin Captain differential pay to 10%
- $106,985.00 Incentive Pay of EMT -I to 1.25%
- $112,793.93 Step -Up from a fixed dollar amount to 7%
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION:
Not applicable.
STAKEHOLDER PROCESS:
Not applicable.
ALTERNATIVES:
If approved, the requirements of §8-14(l) of Charter require the agreement be enacted
as an Ordinance.
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
RECOMMENDATION:
City Administration recommends approval of this Ordinance.
ATTACHMENTS:
2027 IAFF Contract
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
COLLECTIVE BARGAINING AGREEMENT
BETWEEN
CITY OF PUEBLO
AND
INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION
OF FIRE FIGHTERS
LOCAL #3
COMMENCING JANUARY 1, 2027
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PREAMBLE..................................................................................................................... 1
DEFINITIONS.................................................................................................................
2
ARTICLE1.
RECOGNITION...........................................................................................
3
ARTICLE 2.
DUES CHECKOFF AND INDEMNIFICATION ...........................................4
4
ARTICLE3.
UNION SECURITY....................................................................................
5
ARTICLE4.
DISCRIMINATION......................................................................................
6
ARTICLE5.
PREVAILING RIGHTS...............................................................................
7
ARTICLE 6.
RIGHTS OF MANAGEMENT.....................................................................
8
ARTICLE 7.
RULES AND REGULATIONS..................................................................
10
ARTICLE8.
PRODUCTIVITY......................................................................................
11
ARTICLE9.
OVERTIME PAY......................................................................................
12
ARTICLE10.
WAGES..................................................................................................
13
ARTICLE 11.
BASIC RATE OF PAY............................................................................
15
ARTICLE12.
TUITION REFUND................................................................................
16
ARTICLE13.
MILITARY LEAVE..................................................................................
17
ARTICLE 14.
AUTOMOBILE ALLOWANCE.................................................................
18
ARTICLE15.
SHIFT EXCHANGE................................................................................
19
ARTICLE16.
FUNERAL LEAVE..................................................................................
20
ARTICLE 17.
LONGEVITY PAY..................................................................................
21
ARTICLE 18.
RATE OF PAY FOR WORKING IN HIGHER CLASSIFICATION...........
22
ARTICLE19.
HOLIDAYS.............................................................................................
23
ARTICLE20.
VACATION LEAVE................................................................................
25
ARTICLE 21.
APPENDICES AND AMENDMENTS......................................................
27
ARTICLE 22.
CLOTHING ALLOWANCE.....................................................................
28
ARTICLE23.
WORK SCHEDULES.............................................................................
30
ARTICLE 24.
FAMILY MEDICAL COVERAGE............................................................
31
ARTICLE 25.
GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE..................................................................
32
ARTICLE 26.
DISABILITY PAYMENTS --FIRE DEPARTMENT PERSONNEL....,.,.,...
34
ARTICLE27.
SAVINGS CLAUSE................................................................................
35
ARTICLE28.
SICK LEAVE..........................................................................................
36
ARTICLE29.
UNION ACTIVITY..................................................................................
38
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page i
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
ARTICLE30.
INJURY LEAVE......................................................................................
39
ARTICLE31.
SPECIAL LEAVE...................................................................................40
ARTICLE 32.
ABSENCE WITHOUT LEAVE................................................................
41
ARTICLE 33.
STATION TRANSFERS.........................................................................w
42
ARTICLE 34,.
LONGEVITY COMPENSATION DURING LEAVE.................................43
ARTICLE 35.
ORDER OF REDUCTION......................................................................
44
ARTICLE 36.,
ENTRANCE SALARY RATES...............................................................
45
ARTICLE 37.
APPOINTMENT PROBATIONARY..........................................................
46
ARTICLE 38.
LIGHT DUTY AND LIMITED DUTY ASSIGNMENT ...............................
47
ARTICLE 39,
ABOLITION OF POSITION.....................................................................50
ARTICLE 40.
REINSTATEMENT AND REEMPLOYMENT .........................................51
51
ARTICLE 41.
APPOINTMENT TO VACANCY.............................................................
52
ARTICLE 42,
RATE OF PAY ON DEMOTION.............................................................
55
ARTICLE 43,
RECLASSIFICATION.............................................................................
56
ARTICLE 44.
REPORTING CHANGES IN DUTIES; RECLASSIFICATION ................
57
ARTICLE 45.
APPEAL FROM CLASSIFICATION OR RECLASSIFICATION,.............
58
ARTICLE46,.
VACANCIES..........................................................................................
59
ARTICLE 47.
STRIKES - DISRUPTION OF SERVICE................................................60
ARTICLE 48.
INTENT OF THIS AGREEMENT...........................................................61
ARTICLE 49.
PROMOTIONAL EXAMINATION REQUIREMENTS .............................
62
ARTICLE50.
REPLACEMENT....................................................................................
63
ARTICLE 51.
DURATION OF AGREEMENT.............................................................,..
64
ARTICLE52.
SAFETY.................................................................................................
65
ARTICLE 53,
LIABILITY INSURANCE.........................................................................66
ARTICLE 54.
SMOKE FREE WORKPLACE................................................................
67
ARTICLE 55.
DEATH AND DISABILITY PLAN..........................................................„
68
ARTICLE 56.
RANDOM DRUG TESTING...................................................................
69
ARTICLE 57,
MATERNITY, PATERNITY, AND PARENTAL LEAVE ..................,.........70
ARTICLE 58.
PARAMEDIC INCENTIVE............................................................75
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page ii
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
PREAMBLE
This Agreement is entered into by and between the City of Pueblo, hereinafter
referred to as the City, and International Association of Fire Fighters Local #3, hereinafter
referred to as the Union. The City and the Union may also hereinafter be referred to
severally as a party, and jointly as the parties.
It is the purpose of this Agreement to achieve and maintain harmonious relations
between the Employer and the Union; to provide for equitable and peaceful adjustment
of differences, which may arise, and to establish proper standards of wages, hours and
other conditions of employment.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 1
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
DEFINITIONS
"Fire Chief' shall mean the Fire Chief, acting Fire Chief, or the designee
of either.
"Mayor" shall mean the Mayor, Deputy Mayor or the designee of either.
"Director" shall mean the Director of Personnel or his designee.
"Fire Fighter" shall mean any member of the classified service of the fire
department so defined in sec. 8-14(a)(1) of the City Charter.
"Group A Fire Fighters" shall mean those Fire Fighters whose normal work schedule
consists of 8 hour shifts or parts thereof, unless such
firefighters work a flex time schedule approved by the Fire
Chief under Article 23.
"Group B Fire Fighters" shall mean those Fire Fighters whose normal work schedule
consists of 24 hour shifts or parts thereof.
"Day" shall mean calendar day unless otherwise modified or defined
herein.
"Modified Duty" shall mean the assignment of an employee to work with
medical restriction of duty either in the employee's regular
class or in another class in the fire department during any
period in which the fire fighter would otherwise be eligible for
injury leave benefits.
Unless otherwise specified herein, words used in this Agreement shall have the
same meaning as are given them in Section 6-3-1 of the 1971 Code of Ordinances in
effect on April, 1983.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 2
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
ARTICLE 1. RECOGNITION.
The City recognizes the Union as the sole and exclusive collective bargaining
agent for all Fire Fighters.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 3
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
ARTICLE 2. DUES CHECKOFF AND INDEMNIFICATION.
The City shall deduct on a regular basis dues and fees from the pay of all Fire
Fighters who hereafter voluntarily authorize such deduction in writing on a form provided
for this purpose by the Union or the City; the form to be as set forth below; the Union will
initially notify the City as to the amount of dues, or dues and initiation fees, to be deducted.
Such notification will be certified to the City in writing over the signature of the authorized
officer or officers of the Union. Changes in the Union membership dues or fees will be
similarly certified to the City and shall be done at least one month in advance of the
effective date of such change. The City will remit to the Union sums within thirty (30)
days after date of deduction.
The Union shall indemnify, defend, and hold harmless the City, and its officers,
agents or employees against any and all claims, demands, suits, or other forms of liability
that may arise out of, or result from, any action taken by it or them in order to comply with
this Article, except negligent acts for which it or they shall be responsible.
PAYROLL DEDUCTION AUTHORIZATION
NAME:
DEPARTMENT:
EFFECTIVE DATE:
I hereby request and authorize the City of Pueblo to deduct from my earnings, once
each month, union dues and assessments, as well as any increases in such dues and
assessments, as established by the Union. I further request and authorize Local No. 3,
IAFF to certify to the City of Pueblo the amount to be deducted as well as any increases
in such union dues and assessments. The amount deducted shall be remitted to the
Treasurer of Local No. 3, IAFF, the sole and exclusive Collective Bargaining Agent of the
Fire Fighters.
I hereby waive all rights in or claims to the amounts so deducted and remitted, and
also relieve the City, the Union, and all officers, agents or employees of either, from
liability for such amounts.
DATE:
SIGNATURE:
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 4
Docusign Envelope ID: 52480861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
ARTICLE 3. UNION SECURITY.
Section 1. No Fire Fighter shall be required to become a member of the Union as
a condition of his/her employment or continued employment by the City, and there shall
be no discrimination against any Fire Fighter on account of his/her membership or non-
membership in the Union.
Section 2. It is recognized that all Fire Fighters may or may not join the Union, at
the individual's discretion.
Section 3. It is further recognized that the Union, as the exclusive bargaining
representative of all Fire Fighters, owes the same duties to all Fire Fighters whether Union
members or not, and provides benefits and services to all Fire Fighters whether Union
members or not. The Union will be allowed to have up to two (2) hours during the recruit
academy to talk with probationary Fire Fighters about Union activities that are mutually
beneficial to the City and the community.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 5
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
ARTICLE 4. DISCRIMINATION.
The City and the Union recognize that they are subject to and this Agreement is
subordinate to certain local, state and federal laws prohibiting discrimination based on
race, color, religion, sex, national origin, politics, age, handicap, or affiliation or non -
affiliation with a labor organization.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 6
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
ARTICLE 5. PREVAILING RIGHTS.
All ordinances and working conditions in effect on March 1, 1983, pertaining to Fire
Fighters, which are not included in this Agreement, shall remain in full force, unchanged
and unaffected in any manner, during the term of this Agreement unless changed by
mutual consent.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 7
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
ARTICLE 6. RIGHTS OF MANAGEMENT.
Section 1. Except as otherwise specifically provided in this Agreement, the City
has the sole and exclusive right to exercise all the rights or functions of management, and
the exercise of any such rights or function shall not be subject to any grievance procedure,
except as to resolution of whether or not a specific matter is a management right. Without
limiting the generality of the foregoing, as used herein, the term "Rights of Management"
includes:
(a) The determination of Fire Department policy, including the right to manage
the affairs of the Fire Department in all respects;
(b) The right to assign working hours, including overtime;
(c) The right to establish, modify or change work schedules, manning of
apparatus in the main or reserve fleet, etc.;
(d) The right to assign Fire Fighters to other duties within the Fire Department
when their apparatus is out of service;
(e) The right to direct the members of the Fire Department, including the right
to hire, promote, or transfer any Fire Fighter within the Fire Department;
(f) The table of organization of the Fire Department, including the right to
organize and reorganize the Fire Department in any manner it chooses, including the size
of the Fire Department and the determination of job classifications and positions within
classes based upon duties assigned.
(g) The determination of the safety, health and property protection measures
of the Fire Department;
(h) The allocation and assignment of work to Fire Fighters within the Fire
Department;
(I) The determination of policy affecting the selection or training of Fire
Fighters;
(j) The scheduling of operations and the determination of the number and
duration of hours of assigned duty per week;
(k) The establishment, modification and enforcement of Fire Department rules,
regulations, and orders;
(I) The transfer of work from one position to another within the Classified
Service of the Fire Department;
(m) The introduction of new, improved or different methods and techniques of
operation of the Fire Department or a change in existing methods and techniques;
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 8
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
(n) The placing of service, maintenance or other work with outside contractors
or other agencies of the City;
(o) The determination of the number of classes and the number of Fire Fighters
within each class;
(p) The determination of the amount of supervision necessary.
Section 2. No discretionary power vested in the City or in the Fire Chief shall be
exercised in an arbitrary or capricious manner.
lAFF 2027 Contract — Page 9
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
ARTICLE 7. RULES AND REGULATIONS.
All Fire Fighters shall comply with all Fire Department rules and regulations. The
Union recognizes that the City has the authority to suspend, demote, discharge or take
other appropriate disciplinary action against employees for just cause. Any alleged
violations by either the City or Fire Fighter of a departmental rule or regulation shall be
subject to the grievance procedure set out in Article 25.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 10
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
ARTICLE 8. PRODUCTIVITY.
Section 1. The Union and the City recognize that increased productivity will require
the continuation of improvements and technological progress through new methods,
techniques and equipment which will contribute to improved quality and efficiency of fire
protection for the citizens of Pueblo. The Union and the City will act in good faith and with
a cooperative attitude to achieve these ends.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 11
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
ARTICLE 9. OVERTIME PAY.
Section 1. Fire fighters shall be compensated for overtime work at the rate of time
and one-half, in wages, when requested to work such overtime by the Chief of the
Department. Only such hours as are worked in excess of the prescribed daily work shift
shall be so compensated.
Section 2. Any Fire Fighter called back to work prior to the beginning of his next
regular shift shall be compensated for a minimum of four (4) hours at the rate of one and
one-half (1 1/2) his regular rate of pay as provided in Section 1 of this Article. If a Fire
Fighter is moved from one shift to another he shall work the first half (day shift) of the shift
being moved from the second half (night shift) of the shift he is being moved to.
Section 3. Any overtime or call-back compensation provided for in this Article may,
at the discretion of the Fire Fighter, and subject to the requirements of the Fair Labor
Standards Act, be taken as time off regularly scheduled work hours at the rates provided
in this Article, provided that the time taken off must be approved by the Chief.
Section 4. Fire fighters actually contacted and requested to work overtime during
an emergency shall respond to such emergency.
Section 5. Section 1 above rather than Section 2 shall apply to any Fire Fighter
required to hold over at the end of a shift for a maximum of two hours for purposes of
attendance at meetings, or training sessions.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 12
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
ARTICLE 10. WAGES.
Section 1. Effective January 1, 2027, the monthly pay rate for each class, grade,
step or position of employees in the Fire Fighter classification shall be kept at the 2026
rates set by Ordinance establishing the 2026 pay levels. The monthly pay rate for each
position in the promotional classes shall be paid in accordance with the following monthly
pay rates (*denotes a 56 -hr work week except for Captain (Administration)):
(a) The monthly pay rate for each position in the classification of Engineer*
shall be that amount which is equivalent to 107% of the above identified monthly
pay rate for Fire Fighter 6th year.
(b) The monthly pay rate for each position in the classification of
Emergency Medical Officer* shall be that amount which is equivalent to 113% of
the above identified monthly pay rate for Fire Fighter 6th year.
(c) The monthly pay rate for each position in the classification of Fire
Inspector shall be that amount which is equivalent to 112% of the above identified
monthly pay rate for Fire Fighter 6th year.
(d) The monthly pay rate for each position in the classification of Fire
Lieutenant* shall be that amount which is equivalent to 120% of the above
identified monthly pay rate for Fire Fighter 6th year.
(e) The monthly pay rate for each position in the classification of Fire
Captain* shall be that amount which is equivalent to 130% of the above identified
monthly pay rate for Fire Fighter 6th year.
(f) The monthly pay rate for each position in the classification of Assistant
Fire Chief* shall be that amount which is equivalent to 150% of the above identified
monthly pay rate for Fire Fighter 6th year.
("Promotional Pay Schedule")
Section 2. Captain (Administration) shall constitute an assignment for
Captain and shall have assigned duties primarily relating to administrative
functions including training and EMS Coordination. Captain (Administration) shall be a
Group A Fire Fighter. The monthly base pay of the Captain (Administration) shall be
the monthly base pay of Captain in the same grade who is a Group B Fire Fighter plus
an additional 10%..
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 13
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
Section 3. All Fire Fighters who possess and maintain an EMT -I certification or
higher with the City shall be paid a monthly stipend of 1.25% of their monthly base pay
in accordance with the City's usual and customary payroll practices.
Section 4. Fire Fighters assigned to Focus Response Unit (FRU) shall be a
Group B Fire Fighter.
Section 5. Each Fire Fighter who has completed a course of study in hazardous
materials approved by the Fire Chief, and is a certified Hazmat Technician, and is
permanently assigned to the Hazmat Response Team, shall receive an additional
$50.00 per month while assigned to the Hazmat Response Team, provided that a
maximum of eight (8) fire personnel on each shift will be so compensated. There will be
no step up to this position.
Any Fire Fighter assigned to the Hazmat Response Team shall obtain
certification at the Hazmat Technician level within one year. Failure to do so will result
in transfer by the Chief.
Fire fighters permanently assigned to the Hazmat Response Team effective
January 1, 1995, will continue this assignment without the need to re -bid their shift or
station.
Section S. Fire Fighters who are assigned as an Arson Investigator and have the
certification of International Association of Arson Investigators Certified Fire Investigator
(IAAI-CFI) or National Association of Fire Investigators Certified Fire & Explosion
Investigator (NAFI-CFEI) shall receive an additional $100.00 per month.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 14
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
ARTICLE 11. BASIC RATE OF PAY.
The basic hourly rate of pay equals the annual salary as set forth in Article 10
divided by:
(1) 2920 Hours for Group B Fire Fighters.
(2) 2086 Hours for Group A Fire Fighters.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 15
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
ARTICLE 12. TUITION REFUND.
Upon recommendation, and after prior approval of the department head and the
Mayor, the City of Pueblo may reimburse a permanent, full-time Fire Fighter upon
successful completion (grade of C or better) of an approved course or courses in an
approved Fire Service related Degree Program or Emergency Medical Services Degree
Program. The amount to be reimbursed will not exceed seventy-five percent (75%) of the
total cost of tuition, fees, and books. The amount reimbursed shall not exceed two
thousand dollars ($2,000.00) per year per person.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 16
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
ARTICLE 13. MILITARY LEAVE.
Section 1. Any permanent Fire Fighter who presents official orders requiring his
attendance for a period of training or active duty as a member of the military service shall
be entitled to military leave for a period or periods not to exceed the equivalent of three
weeks of work on the Fire Fighter's regular work schedule in any one year and he shall
be entitled to full pay from the City for such period. For purposes of this Article, the
foregoing provision stating "the equivalent of three weeks of work on the Fire Fighter's
regular work schedule" shall have the same meaning as provided in § 28-3-601, C.R.S.
Military leave shall be in addition to, and may not be concurrent with, authorized vacation
leave. Such Fire Fighter may take one shift of vacation or personal leave either
immediately before or immediately after his military leave.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 17
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
ARTICLE 14. AUTOMOBILE ALLOWANCE.
A Fire Fighter who is required or specifically authorized
private automobile in conduct of City business shall be paid
allowed by the Internal Revenue Service for each mile of
automobile on City business.
by the Chief to operate a
mileage at the amount
usage of the personal
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 18
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
ARTICLE 15. SHIFT EXCHANGE.
Fire fighters shall have the right to exchange shifts when the change does not
interfere with the operations of the Fire Department. Operational interference shall be
determined by the Chief or his representative. The Chief shall not act in an arbitrary or
capricious manner.
Fire fighters shall have the right to exchange banked vacation for shifts worked, in
blocks of either 12 or 24 hours, subject to the restrictions set out above, provided that no
such exchange results in any Fire Fighter exceeding the maximum banked vacation
allowable under Article 20 herein, and provided that no such exchange results in liability
for the payment of overtime compensation by the City.
Neither the City of Pueblo nor the Fire Department is responsible for any problems
arising out of shift exchanges, including any time not paid back. The firefighter who
agreed to work an exchanged shift shall remain responsible for said shift. In case a
firefighter who has agreed to work an exchanged shift fails to do so for any reason
(including sick leave) that firefighter shall be charged one vacation shift. If the department
is required to assign any overtime, one and one half (1 '/2) shifts of vacation shall be
charged to that firefighter.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 19
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
ARTICLE 16. FUNERAL LEAVE.
Section 1. In the event of the death of an employee's spouse, spousal equivalent
as defined in section 6-3-1 (33.1) of the Pueblo Municipal Code of Ordinances, child,
including step -child, parent, including step-parent, brother, sister or grandchild occurs,
the employee shall be entitled to paid administrative leave up to ten (10) consecutive
calendar days from date of death for funeral leave. Such leave shall not be accrued or
subject to any maximum and not charged against other employee leave.
Section 2. In the event of the death of an employee's grandparent, mother-in-law,
father-in-law or other relative residing in the same household as the employee, the
employee shall be entitled to take leave for ten (10) consecutive calendar days from date
of death for funeral leave. Such time off shall be paid and covered by sick leave or other
accrued leave, assuming the employee has a sufficient amount of paid leave available.
Section 3.
(a) Each employee shall be entitled to paid leave from duty for twelve (12)
hours per year to attend the funeral of a person other than the Officer's immediate family
provided the employee has sufficient paid leave available.
(b) In addition, employees may be granted funeral leave not to exceed four
hours for attendance at the funeral of a deceased Fire Fighter, provided a working
schedule can be arranged by the Fire Chief that does not materially impair the capability
of the department to fulfill its duties to the public.
(c) Accrued vacation leave or leave without pay may be granted by the Fire
Chief for further funeral purpose.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 20
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
ARTICLE 17. LONGEVITY PAY.
Fire Fighter Personnel. Commencing with the month following completion of five
years of actual continuous service as a full-time Fire Fighter in the Fire Department of the
City, each such Fire Fighter shall receive, in addition to all other compensation for full-
time services, the amount of Seventy -Five Dollars (75.00) per month; following ten (10)
years of such service, One Hundred and Fifty Dollars ($150.00) per month; following
fifteen (15) years of service, Two Hundred and Twenty -Five Dollars ($225.00) per month;
following twenty (20) years of such service, Three Hundred Dollars ($300.00) per month.
In no event shall longevity compensation exceed Three Hundred Dollars ($300.00) per
month.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 21
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
ARTICLE 18. RATE OF PAY FOR WORKING IN HIGHER CLASSIFICATION.
When a Fire Fighter is assigned to and performs the duties of a higher classification
for a period of four (4) hours for a Class A Fire Fighter or four (4) hours for a Class B Fire
Fighter, or longer, the Fire Fighter will be paid for each hour worked in the higher
classification the lesser of either of the two following amounts:
(a) an amount equal to seven percent (7%) of the basic hourly rate of pay of the
higher classification; or
(b) the difference between the Fire Fighter's current basic hourly rate of pay and
the basic hourly rate of pay of the higher classification.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 22
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
ARTICLE 19. HOLIDAYS.
Section 1. Group A. Fire fighters shall receive the following days off with full pay:
(a) The first day of January (New Year's Day)
(b) The third Monday in January (Martin Luther King, Jr. Day)
(c) The third Monday in February (President's Day)
(d) The last Monday in May (Memorial Day)
(e) The nineteenth day of June (Juneteenth Day)
(f) The fourth day of July (Independence Day)
(g) The first Monday in September (Labor Day)
(h) The second Monday in October (Columbus Day)
(i) The fourth Thursday in November (Thanksgiving Day)
(j) The day after Thanksgiving
(k) The twenty-fifth day of December (Christmas Day)
For Group A Fire Fighters only, when any holiday listed above falls on Saturday,
the preceding Friday shall be observed as the holiday; when the holiday falls on Sunday,
the following Monday shall be observed as a holiday. In addition to the above, any day
may be designated as a holiday by proclamation of the Council President upon approval
of the City Council. Group A Fire Fighters shall receive forty (40) hours of personal leave
during each calendar year of employment.
Section 2. Group B Fire Fighters shall receive one hundred and fifty-six (156)
hours of personal leave during each calendar year of employment in lieu of holidays.
Section 3. Each employee working for the City on any election day shall be allowed
such time off as is necessary to vote. Such time off shall be scheduled by the Chief.
Section 4. Personal Leave,
(a) Personal leave time may be granted, with pay, for any one of the following
purposes:
(1) Time lost as a result of illness or injury of the Fire Fighter's immediate family.
(2) To attend to personal business.
(3) Leisure activities.
(b) The City will compensate Group A Fire Fighters for no more than forty (40)
hours of unused personal leave time and will compensate Group B Fire Fighters for no
more than one hundred and fifty-six (156) hours of unused personal leave time at the Fire
Fighter's regular rate of pay.
1. Fire Fighter's requesting compensation in lieu of personal leave in the
final payroll period of the calendar year, are required to submit a written request
no later than December 15th of said calendar year.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 23
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
2. If Fire fighter's wish to receive a payment in lieu of personal leave at
some time other than the final pay period of the calendar year, Fire Fighters may
submit a written request for such payment, and a Personnel Action Form ("PAF")
will be generated to initiate that payment. If the approved written request and PAF
are received by the City Finance office prior to the 15th day of any month, payment
for such personal leave will be issued on the date of normal payroll distribution for
the month in which the request for payment was made. If the approved written
request and PAF are received by the City Finance office after the 15th day of any
month, payment for such personal leave will be issued in the month following the
month in which the request for payment was made and will occur on the normal
payroll distribution date. Personal leave time shall not exceed the levels indicated
above, nor shall it be accumulated or carried over from one year to the next.
3. Personal leave shall be scheduled and administered under the direction
and with the approval of the Fire Chief. In the event of illness, injury or emergency
in which personal leave is requested, the Fire Fighter shall notify his supervisor at
least one (1) hour prior to scheduled reporting time.
(c) Except in the case of illness, injury or emergency requests for personal leave
by any Fire Fighter shall be made at least five (5) days prior to the day the leave is to be
taken. All or part of personal leave may be scheduled to be taken at the time vacations
are scheduled.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 24
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
ARTICLE 20. VACATION LEAVE.
Section 1. Group A Fire Fighters hired prior to 1/1/97 shall be allowed vacation
leave with full pay at the rate of:
- 12 shifts for one year continuous service with the City of Pueblo;
- 15 shifts for five years continuous service with the City of Pueblo;
- 18 shifts for ten years continuous service with the City of Pueblo;
- 21 shifts for fifteen years continuous service with the City of Pueblo.
Group A Fire Fighters hired on or after 1/1/97 shall be allowed vacation leave with
full pay at the rate of:
- 10 shifts for one year continuous service with the City of Pueblo;
- 15 shifts for five years continuous service with the City of Pueblo;
- 18 shifts for ten years continuous service with the City of Pueblo;
- 21 shifts for fifteen years continuous service with the City of Pueblo.
Section 2. Group B Fire Fighters hired prior to 1/1/97 shall be allowed vacation
leave with full pay at the rate of:
- 6 shifts for one year continuous service with the City of Pueblo;
- 7 shifts for five years continuous service with the City of Pueblo;
- 8 shifts for ten years continuous service with the City of Pueblo;
-10 shifts for fifteen years continuous service with the City of Pueblo.
Group B Fire Fighters hired on or after 1/1/97 shall be allowed vacation leave with
full pay at the rate of:
- 5 shifts for one year continuous service with the City of Pueblo;
- 7 shifts for five years continuous service with the City of Pueblo;
- 8 shifts for ten years continuous service with the City of Pueblo;
-10 shifts for fifteen years continuous service with the City of Pueblo.
Section 3. Vacation leave may be granted in minimum and maximum periods as
provided by the Fire Chief, with the approval of the Mayor, provided vacation leave will
not be granted in excess of vacation credit earned prior to the starting date of leave.
Section 4. The Fire Fighter with the longest length of service in the Fire
Department shall be given the first choice of accrued vacation dates; the next senior Fire
Fighter in the Fire Department, the second choice; and the like for succeeding conflicts,
if any.
Section 5. If, in the discretion of the Mayor, an emergency exists, a Fire Fighter
may be granted the equivalent in money, of vacation leave which such Fire Fighter is
entitled for that year.
Section 6. At the termination of service with the Fire Department, for any reason,
of any Fire Fighter covered by this Agreement said Fire Fighter shall receive
compensation in full at his regular rate of pay for all accumulated vacation allowance due
him at the termination of his service, in addition to all accumulated sick leave to which he
is entitled according to Article 28. Upon the death of a Fire Fighter covered by this
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 25
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
Agreement, the cash benefits attributable to Fire Fighter's accumulated vacation
allowance, and all accumulated sick leave to which he is entitled according to Article 28,
shall be paid to the Fire Fighter's surviving spouse, or if there be no surviving spouse then
to the Fire Fighter's surviving child or children, or if there be no surviving child or children,
then to the Fire Fighter's estate.
Section 7. A Fire Fighter may accrue up to one year of annual vacation. If the Fire
Fighter desires he may put all or part of his accrued vacation in bank up to twice his
annual vacation ("Maximum Accrual"). If the Fire Fighter meets the Maximum Accrual,
the Fire Fighter will not be required to bid the excess vacation but shall be required to
schedule it in the same manner banked vacation is scheduled. Any vacation in excess
of Maximum Accrual must be used by December 31st of the same year or it will not be
allowed and will be lost (use or lose). Banked vacation may be taken at a later date in
accord with the following procedure:
(a) Requests shall be made in writing within the thirty (30) day period prior to
the shift desired.
(b) Requests shall be considered on a first come first serve basis unless two or
more requests are received during the same 24 hour (7:00 a.m. - 7:00 a.m.) period when
the senior Fire Fighter shall have priority in this case.
(c) Confirmation by the Chief of the shift requested shall be no less than two
(2) shifts before the shift desired.
(d) Seven Fire Fighters shall be allowed off for vacation, personal days or comp
time per shift. Additional Fire Fighters allowed off, if any, shall be at the sole discretion
of the Chief. All requests to take vacation or personal days shall have precedence over
any request to use comp time, provided that if comp time is denied, the firefighter shall
be entitled to be paid for such time.
(e) If approved, compensatory time off shall be used in increments of no less
than four (4) hours at a time.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 26
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
ARTICLE 21. APPENDICES AND AMENDMENTS.
All appendices and amendments to this Agreement shall be numbered, dated and
signed by both responsible parties and shall be subject to all provisions of this Agreement.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 27
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
ARTICLE 22. CLOTHING ALLOWANCE.
Section 1. Except for shoes, socks, belts, underwear and sleeping apparel, the
City shall furnish all uniforms, protective clothing and protective devices required by the
City in the performance of the duties of the Fire Fighters. Each Fire Fighter shall wear
approved and appropriate sleeping apparel as required by such departmental regulation
or order.
(a) On or before April 1 of each year of this agreement, the City shall provide
all Fire Fighters the following uniform items:
• Three (3) t -shirts
• Three (3) pairs of pants
• One (1) job shirt
(b) Upon hiring, the City shall provide the following uniform items:
• One (1) uniform coat
• Two (2) dress shirts
Section 2. A joint labor/management uniform committee (the "Uniform
Committee") will meet periodically to review the uniforms, protective clothing and
protective devices provided and may recommend alternatives or changes in specific items
during the term of this agreement. The City retains the right to approve or not approve
the recommendation. The City shall not, however, reduce the fire safety standards of the
uniforms, protective clothing and protective devices provided by the City as of August 1,
2012.
Section 3. The City will be responsible for the replacement and repair of all
uniforms, protective clothing and protective devices provided by City unless the item is
lost or damaged due to the Fire Fighter's neglect. If a Fire Fighter loses or damages an
item through neglect, he/she will be required to purchase a replacement item from the
City. The City has the authority to determine if and when a replacement of any item of
uniform, protective clothing or protective gear is required. With respect to any required
replacement, the City shall replace and/or repair such item in a reasonable period of time
after receipt of written request from the Fire Fighter. The City will make a good faith effort
to replace uniform items within thirty (30) days of receipt of a written request and will make
good faith efforts to replace protective clothing and protective devices within ninety (90)
days of receipt of a written request. During any period a Fire Fighter is waiting for
replacement of protective clothing or a protective device, the City shall provide the Fire
Fighter with an adequate temporary protective clothing or protective device.
Section 4. A Fire Fighter leaving the service of the City whether through
resignation, retirement, layoff or discharge, is responsible for returning any City property
including uniforms, protective clothing or protective gear provided by City. Failure to
return City property may result in the delay in issuance of the Fire Fighter's final check
and deduction may be made for the value of the property not returned.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 28
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
Section 5. The City shall pay each Fire Fighter $180.00 per year for the
maintenance of the uniforms, on or before the last business day in the month of January
in each year of this agreement. Payment may be issued as part of the regular payroll
check or by separate check at the discretion of the City.
Section 6. Subject to and condition upon annual appropriation therefore, City will
purchase annually the following bunker gear for at least 20% of sworn and probationary
Fire Fighters:
• Turnout coats
• Turnout pants
• Pairs of gloves
• Protective hoods
The City shall will make extra sets of bunker gear available for use as "loaner gear".
The designated PPE coordinator in conjunction with the Clothing Committee will
coordinate disbursement of such gear. The failure to make such annual appropriation
may be subject to grievance under Section 6.2 of this Agreement.
Section 7 Anytime a firefighter is assigned to pregnancy light duty, the city shall
purchase the firefighter two (2) navy maternity pants and two (2) navy uniform shirt.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 29
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
ARTICLE 23. WORK SCHEDULES.
Section 1. Group B Fire Fighters shall work a work schedule consisting of two
twenty-four hour shifts and four days off within a repeating six -calendar day period. For
purposes of 29 U.S.C. §207(k) and 29 C.F.R. 553.230, the work period shall be twenty-
four (24) calendar days. The employee's basic hourly rate of pay shall be 12 x Monthly
Base Pay/2920 hours.
Section 2. Group A Fire Fighters shall work their regularly scheduled hours
between Monday and Friday between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. The Chief
shall have the discretion to determine at what time within these hours the work day shall
commence.
Section 3. The Fire Chief may implement a flex time program for Group A Fire
Fighters if he or she desires. The Chief retains the right to return Group A Fire Fighters
to normal schedule at any time. Flex time schedules shall not be limited to flex time hours
between Monday and Friday or be limited to the flex time hours between the hours of 7
a.m. and 5:00 p.m. or 7 a.m. and 7 p.m.
Section 4. In the event of an emergency the Fire Chief shall have the authority to
assign work schedules as he/she deems necessary.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 30
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
ARTICLE 24. FAMILY MEDICAL COVERAGE.
Section 1. Health insurance shall be as provided or otherwise determined
pursuant to the August 26, 2019 Self -Funded Health Benefit Plan Amendment to the
Labor Agreement, a copy of which is attached hereto, labelled Exhibit A and incorporated
herein.
Section 2. The City shall contribute for each firefighter $25.00 of the full cost of
an individual dental plan and $25.00 of the full cost of a family dental plan. The City
shall also provide for a $10,000 Life insurance plan for all firefighters. The dental plan
should be the same or similar to the plans of general service employees.
Section 3. Fire Fighters who retire during the term of this Agreement may retain
insurance coverage provided herein by assuming the full cost of the premiums for such
insurance.
Sectioin 4. The City shall pay the entire annual contribution for all firefighters
who are eligible for coverage under the Voluntary Firefighter Cancer Benefit's Program,
CRS 29-5-401 et seq. In the event that the State Legislature during the term of the
agreement fails to continue to fund the Trust, the City shall have no obligation to
continue to pay this contribution.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 31
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
ARTICLE 25. GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE.
Section 1. A grievance is a claim that the City has violated an express provision
of this Agreement. Any Fire Fighter or group of Fire Fighters may discuss any matter with
their supervisor without invoking the formal grievance procedure provided for in the
Article.
Section 2. A grievance must be initiated by either an aggrieved Fire Fighter or by
Local No. 3 on behalf of any one or more individual Fire Fighters. The grievant must
reduce the grievance to writing and present the written grievance to the Chief of the Fire
Department within ten (10) days after the grievant knew or should have known the facts
which gave rise to the grievance.
Section 3. The Chief of the Fire Department shall meet with the grievant and, if
the grievant is an individual, representatives of Local No. 3 in an effort to resolve the
grievance within 10 calendar days after being presented with the written grievance. The
Fire Chief shall respond to the grievance within seven (7) days following the meeting with
the grievant and/or representatives of Local No. 3.
Section 4. If the grievant is not satisfied with the answer of the Chief of the Fire
Department, the grievance committee of the Union may appeal the grievance to the
Mayor within 10 days of receipt of the written answer of the Chief of the Fire Department.
Within 10 days after receipt of the appeal, the Mayor shall meet with the grievant and if
the grievant is an individual, with representatives of Local No. 3 to discuss the grievance.
Within 5 days after this meeting, the Mayor shall give the Union grievance committee his
answer in writing.
Section 5. If the Union grievance committee is not satisfied with the answer of the
Mayor, a Union officer must give written notice of intent to arbitrate to the corporate
authorities of the City within fourteen (14) days after receipt of the Mayor's answer.
Representatives of the corporate authorities and of the Union shall attempt to agree upon
an arbitrator within seven (7) days of submission of the written notice of intent to arbitrate.
In the event the parties are unable to agree upon an arbitrator within the time limit, either
party or its representative may request the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service to
furnish a panel of seven arbitrators. The parties shall alternately strike from this panel
until only one name remains. The remaining name shall be the arbitrator. The arbitrator
shall render a decision which is final and binding upon the parties within thirty (30)
calendar days after hearing the grievance.
Section 6. The fees and costs of the arbitrator shall be shared equally by the Union
and the City. Each party shall pay its own costs and expenses of the arbitration.
Section 7. The findings and decision of the arbitrator shall be consistent with
applicable Colorado law and with the expressed terms of this Agreement. The arbitrator
shall have no power or authority to add to, subtract from, disregard, alter or modify any of
the terms of this Agreement.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 32
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
Section 8. Failure of a Fire Fighter or Union to initiate a grievance or file written
appeal or demand for arbitration within the time limits specified in this Article shall
constitute an irrevocable waiver of the right to file or pursue such grievance. The City
and the Union may mutually waive any time limitation contained herein. The parties
recognize that such waivers are contrary to the spirit of the grievance procedure and shall
be invoked only for substantial reasons. Failure of the Fire Chief or Mayor to timely file
his answer to any grievance shall be deemed to be a denial thereof. However, in all
events, the Fire Chief or Mayor must file a written answer to any such grievance.
Section 9. Notice under this Article shall be given by personal delivery, if to:
(a) the Union, the president or any member of the Union's adjustment
committee; or
(b) the City, the Fire Chief or Mayor or their respective administrative staff.
Union shall give notice to the City, in writing, of Union's current president and all
current members of Union's adjustment committee, and Union shall promptly notify the
City in writing of any changes thereto.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 33
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
ARTICLE 26. DISABILITY PAYMENTS --FIRE DEPARTMENT PERSONNEL.
Section 1. In any case where a Fire Fighter shall become mentally or physically
disabled while not on active duty during regularly assigned hours of duty, and from any
cause not self-inflicted or due to the habitual use of intoxicants or drugs, to an extent
whereby he is unable to perform his regular Fire Department duties, he shall be paid by
the City of Pueblo from funds available within the Fire Department's annual appropriation
starting immediately after the expiration of paid sick leave benefits and accrued vacation
leave as provided by Article 28 and 20 of this Agreement, and for the remaining period of
such disability, not to exceed one (1) calendar year from the date of such disability, a
monthly benefit equal to two and one-half percent (2 Y2%) of the amount of his monthly
salary as of the date of his disability; multiplied by the number of years he has been in
active service with the Fire Department; but any such benefits under this provisions shall
not exceed one-half of his monthly salary as of the date of his disability.
Section 2. For the purpose of determining the physical or mental disability of any
such member, the Firemen's Pension Fund Board established by Section 2-2-1 of the
Code of Ordinances of the City of Pueblo shall have jurisdiction. The Board may
personally examine the member and shall appoint one or more physicians or surgeons to
make an examination of the member and report their findings to the Board, which report
shall be taken into consideration in determining whether the member is physically or
mentally disabled.
Section 3. In the event the State Legislature enacts a statute removing the 12
month waiting period from C.R.S. 1973, 31-30-407 (1)(F)(I) the provisions of this section
shall automatically terminate.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 34
Docusign Envelope ID: 52480861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
ARTICLE 27. SAVINGS CLAUSE.
The provisions of this agreement are severable and the legal invalidity of any
provision or provisions shall not affect or invalidate other provisions. However, if any
provision of this Agreement should be declared invalid by any court of competent
jurisdiction, then the parties to this Agreement shall meet within fifteen (15) days from the
date they learn of such declaration and negotiate in good faith for the purpose of agreeing
upon a lawful provision which would accomplish the intent of the parties as expressed by
the provision declared invalid.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 35
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
ARTICLE 28. SICK LEAVE.
Section 1. Group B Fire Fighters shall be allowed 17/24 of a working shift of sick
leave for each month of service from the first day of employment. Unused sick leave shall
be accumulated to a maximum accrual of 84 working shifts. Group B Fire Fighters hired
on or after January 1, 1996, shall be allowed 12/24 of a working shift of sick leave for
each month of service from the first day of employment. Unused sick leave shall be
accumulated to a maximum accrual of 84 working shifts. Effective January 1, 2004, the
maximum sick leave accrual for Group B Fire Fighters shall be reduced from 84 shifts to
74 shifts, and departmental records shall be adjusted to reflect this reduction.
Section 2. Group A Fire Fighters shall be allowed one and one-half working days
of sick leave for each month of service from the first day of employment. Unused sick
leave shall be accumulated to a maximum accrual of 200 working shifts. Group A Fire
Fighters hired on or after January 1, 1996, shall be allowed one working day of sick leave
for each month of service from the first day of employment. Unused sick leave shall be
accumulated to a maximum accrual of 200 working shifts. Effective January 1, 2004, the
maximum sick leave accrual for Group A Fire Fighters shall be reduced from 200 days to
180 days; and departmental records shall be adjusted to reflect this reduction.
Section 3. Upon separation due to retirement or death, a Group A Fire Fighter
hired prior to January 1, 1996, shall be paid at his regular rate of pay for all accumulated
sick leave, but not to exceed 120 days; a Group B Fire Fighter hired prior to January 1,
1996, shall be paid at his regular rate of pay for accumulated sick leave, but not to exceed
56 working shifts.
Section 4. In the event of death, such sum shall be paid to the surviving spouse
of such Fire Fighter. In the event there shall be no surviving spouse, then such sum shall
be paid to the Estate of such Fire Fighter.
Section 5, Separation benefits shall be paid immediately upon the effective date
of separation.
Section 6. Group A Fire Fighters hired on or after January 1, 1996, shall not be
reimbursed for unused sick leave upon separation. These Fire Fighters will have the
option to receive compensation for ten (10) days of sick leave each year at one-half (%)
pay. However, before a Group A Fire Fighter may exercise this option, he must have a
minimum of twenty-four (24) days of unused accrued sick leave to his credit, and his
accrual may not be reduced to less than twenty-four (24) days by the exercise of this
option. Group B Fire Fighters hired on or after January 1, 1996, shall not be reimbursed
for unused sick leave upon separation. These Fire Fighters will have the option to receive
compensation for 112 hours of sick leave each year at one-half ('/2) pay. However, before
a Group B Fire Fighter may exercise this option, he must have a minimum of 288 hours
of unused accrued sick leave to his credit, and his accrual may not be reduced to less
than 288 hours by the exercise of this option.
Section 7. All Fire Fighters hired prior to January 1, 1996, shall have the option of
electing the new plan, however, they must waive all benefits under Section 3, Section 4,
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 36
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
and Section 8 of this Article. Once this election is made, the Fire Fighter may not return
to the old plan. This election to enter the new plan must be made prior to January 1,
1996. Group A Fire Fighters who opt into the new plan shall be allowed one working day
of sick leave for each month of service. Group B Fire Fighters who opt into the new plan
shall be allowed 12/24 of a working shift of sick leave for each month of service.
Section 8. Group A Fire Fighters hired prior to January 1, 1996, who have not
elected the new plan, and who have at least 15 years of service and 120 days of accrued,
unused sick leave to their credit, may annually sell back up to 10 days of sick leave for 1/2
pay. The number of sick leave days sold back to the City shall be deducted from the Fire
Fighter's accrual, but his accrual will be increased by future sick leave accrued but
unused, to the maximum of 200 days. The amount of days available for buy-back under
Section 3 of this article shall be permanently reduced by one-half of the days sold back
to the City. Group B Fire Fighters hired prior to January 1, 1996, who have not elected
the new plan, and who have at least 15 years of service and 40 shifts of accrued, unused
sick leave to their credit, may annually sell back up to 4 shifts of sick leave for 1/2 pay. The
number of sick leave shifts sold back to the City shall be deducted from the Fire Fighter's
accrual, but his accrual will be increased by future sick leave accrued but unused, to the
maximum of 84 shifts. The amount of shifts available for buy-back under Section 3 of this
Article shall be permanently reduced by one-half of the shifts sold back to the City.
Effective January 1, 2004, the maximum sick leave accrual for Group A Fire Fighters shall
be reduced from 200 days to 180 days; and the maximum sick leave accrual for Group B
Fire Fighters shall be reduced from 84 shifts to 74 shifts, and departmental records shall
be adjusted to reflect this reduction.
Section 9. If an employee has been scheduled for vacation or personal days, this
time shall not be converted to sick leave except in the event of the employee's
hospitalization or if Fire Fighter would be unable to perform light duty or modified duty
with confirmation by the treating physician. Such verification of injury or illness must be
provided to the Fire Chief or Acting Fire Chief as soon as possible. If employee is out of
town, he/she must notify the Fire Chief or Acting Fire Chief within 24 hours of injury or
sickness and notify the Fire Chief or Acting Fire Chief of the injury or sickness and his/her
intent to have time converted to sick leave. If the affected Fire Fighter fails to follow
appropriate notification procedures as outline in this Article, the time will not be converted.
Section 10. No provision of this Article shall be construed or applied in violation of
the requirements of the Healthy Families and Workplaces Act, C.R.S. §§ 8-13.3-401 et.
Seq.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 37
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
ARTICLE 29. UNION ACTIVITY.
Section 1. Neither the Union, nor its officers, agents, representatives, or members
will intimidate, interfere with, or coerce Fire Fighters. No union activity or union business
of any kind will be carried on during working hours without express permission in advance
from the Fire Chief. All requests for leave from duty for any union business shall be in
writing and shall specify name, date, time, location and purpose of the leave. Violation of
this Section 1 of this Article 29 by any Fire Fighter shall be just cause for disciplinary
action, pursuant to Chapter 10, Title VI of the 1971 Code of Ordinances. Failure of the
City to enforce any of the provisions of this Section 1 of this Article 29 in any one or more
instances shall not be construed a waiver of any of the provisions of this Section 1 of this
Article 29.
Section 2. No Fire Fighter shall be discharged, disciplined or discriminated against
because of activity on behalf of the Union which does not interfere with the discharge of
his duties or any assignments, or violate any of the provisions of this agreement, City
ordinances, statutes, rules or regulations of the department.
Section 3. The Union shall have the right to post on the bulletin boards designated
by the Fire Chief, within all respective fire stations and fire offices, notices of union
meetings, union recreational and social affairs, notices of union elections, and
appointments and results of union elections, all of which pertain to the Pueblo Fire
Department. No other postings will be allowed.
Section 4. When approved by the Fire Chief, two of the members of the union e -
board shall be granted leave from duty with full pay for conducting necessary Union
business. When approved by the Fire Chief, during and for a reasonable time before
bargaining with City representatives for a successor collective bargaining agreement the
Union Bargaining Committee (not to exceed five persons) shall be granted leave from
duty with full pay to conduct negotiations and deliberations. No such leave or permissions
shall be granted for lobbying activities in any legislative forum on paid time. The Union
shall endeavor to conduct all necessary Union business during the non -working time of
the greatest number of Fire Fighters required for such business, to the greatest extent
possible. Said approval shall be granted by the Chief when said leave would not disrupt
or interfere with the service of the department.
Section 5. Requests for union business leave shall be made at least two shifts
before the beginning of the shift during which union business leave is requested whenever
possible. The aggregate maximum amount of time which may be taken as fully paid leave
to conduct union business under this contract shall not exceed three hundred sixty (360)
hours per year, not counting leave for arbitration hearings, grievance hearings or
negotiation meetings for a new collective bargaining agreement. Any union business
leave in excess of 15 shifts or 360 hours per year shall be charged as vacation leave or
taken as unpaid leave.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 38
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
ARTICLE 30. INJURY LEAVE.
Section 1. Each Fire Fighter covered by this Agreement who is injured while in the
performance of his duties inside or outside the City limits shall be paid injury leave in a
sum equal to the Fire Fighter's full salary for the period of disability not to exceed one (1)
calendar year from the date of injury, except that an employee who undergoes surgery
for such a duty injury shall be entitled to a total of one year of such paid injury leave,
during a period ending two years from the date of injury, whenever he may be disabled
and unable to work as a result of such duty injury. Even though the period of time during
such an employee who undergoes surgery for a duty related injury is two calendar years
from the date of such duty injury, the total amount of said injury leave to which an
employee is entitled is a sum equal to one year of such employee's full salary.
Section 2. Injury leave benefits as set forth herein are maximum benefits for each
injury. Fire fighters on injury leave shall be granted all benefits provided other Fire Fighters
covered by this Agreement the same as if they were in active service of the City.
Section 3. Workers' Compensation temporary disability benefits paid to a Fire
Fighter for the same period of time he receives injury leave benefits hereunder shall be
reimbursed to the City, provided that no amount shall be reimbursed until such time as
the temporary disability benefits are actually paid. In the event a Fire Fighter receives
temporary disability benefits for the period he received injury leave benefits, he shall
endorse to the City the check received by him for the purpose of paying such benefits.
Receipt of injury leave benefits hereunder by a Fire Fighter shall operate as and be a
partial assignment to the City of said Fire Fighter's interest in and to any cause of action
against a third party as defined in C.R.S. 1973, 8-52-100 et. seg., as amended, to the
extent of injury leave benefits paid or payable hereunder by the City to said Fire Fighter.
During such time as he is receiving injury leave benefits hereunder and for a period of 60
days from and after the receipt of the final payment thereof, said Fire Fighter shall have
an exclusive right to engage the services of an attorney -at -law to settle or to otherwise
dispute of said cause of action which shall not be settled or otherwise disposed of without
the written consent of the City. If said Fire Fighter engages the services of an attorney as
aforesaid, the City shall not be liable for costs or attorney fees in connection therewith;
however, in lieu thereof, the City agrees to limit its pro rata share of any recovery so
affected to 75% of injury leave benefits paid or payable to the Fire Fighter hereunder. If
said Fire Fighter fails to engage the services of an attorney, as aforesaid, the City may
take such action as it deems advisable for the recovery of 100% of all injury benefits paid
to said Fire Fighter, and said Fire Fighter will cooperate with the City in such action as it
may take and furnish any and all papers and information in his possession deemed by
the City to be necessary in connection therewith.
Section 4. No sick leave, injury leave or temporary disability leave benefits shall
be payable to any Fire Fighter injured while in the employ of an employer other than the
City of Pueblo, or while self-employed.
Section 5. Employees on injury leave are subject to light or modified duty as
defined,
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 39
Docusign Envelope ID: 52480861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
ARTICLE 31. SPECIAL LEAVE.
Section 1. In addition to leaves authorized above, the Fire Chief may authorize a
Fire Fighter to be absent without pay for personal reasons for a period or periods not to
exceed ten (10) working days in any calendar year.
Section 2. The Mayor may authorize special leaves of absence with or without pay
for any period or periods not to exceed six (6) calendar months in any one calendar year
for the following purposes: attendance at college, university, or business school for the
purpose of training in subjects related to the work of the employee and which will benefit
the employee and the City service; urgent personal business requiring employee's
attention for an extended period such as settling estates, liquidating a business, serving
on a jury and attending court as a witness, and for purposes other than above that are
deemed beneficial to the City service.
Section 3. The Mayor may authorizE
any of the purposes set out in the preceding
time,
special leaves of absence without pay for
subparagraph for any reasonable length of
Section 4. The City Council may grant leaves of absence with or without pay in
excess of the limitations above for the purposes of extended courses of training at a
recognized university or college and for other purposes that are deemed beneficial to the
City service.
Section 5. The parties understand that they are subject to the Family and Medical
Leave Act of 1993, and that all applicable provisions of the FMLA are controlling over any
provisions of this agreement in conflict therewith.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 40
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
ARTICLE 32. ABSENCE WITHOUT LEAVE.
Section 1. Any Fire Fighter who finds it necessary to be absent from duty due to
emergency shall report the reasons therefore to his supervisor or department at least one
hour before working time, on the first day of such absence. If this is not possible, the Fire
Fighter shall report to his supervisor or department at the earliest possible time and shall
state the reasons for his failure to report at least one hour before working time. Failure of
a Fire Fighter to so report may be grounds for disciplinary action.
Section 2. All unauthorized absences without leave shall be grounds for
disciplinary action. Reduction of pay shall be made for all periods of unauthorized
absences.
Section 3. Any unauthorized absence of six or more consecutive working shifts of
a Group A Fire Fighter, or of three or more consecutive working shifts of a Group B Fire
Fighter, shall be deemed to be and shall constitute a resignation from employment by the
Fire Fighter.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 41
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
ARTICLE 33. STATION TRANSFERS.
When an opening occurs in a fire station, due to either promotion, demotion,
separation from City service, or the creation of a new position, Fire Fighters shall be
notified by email from the Fire Chief before the opening is filled. Such memo shall be
posted in each station for at least one business week (7 calendar days). Such opening
shall be filled by the senior qualified Fire Fighter in the class applying for that position in
writing during the time of posting of the email. The Chief shall retain the right to transfer
Fire Fighters when an opening as described above is not involved, provided that such
transfers shall not be arbitrary or capricious.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 42
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
ARTICLE 34. LONGEVITY COMPENSATION DURING LEAVE.
Section 1. Longevity compensation as stated above shall be paid to a Fire Fighter
while on authorized leave with pay. Such longevity compensation shall not be paid to a
Fire Fighter for any month during which such Fire Fighter shall be absent on leave without
pay for more than one-half of the working time prescribed for that Fire Fighter's class.
Section 2. Periods of time during which a Fire Fighter is off work due to lay-off or
reduction in force and is on valid reinstatement list shall not constitute a break in continuity
of service; provided, however, such periods of time shall not be accrued as a part of the
actual continuous service necessary to qualify for longevity compensation.
Section 3. Absence without leave shall forfeit all longevity pay for the month in
which such absence occurs. For purposes of this section, periods of authorized leave
without pay shall not accrue as part of the actual continuous service necessary to qualify
for longevity compensation.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 43
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
ARTICLE 35. ORDER OF REDUCTION.
Section 1. A reduction of the number of Fire Fighter positions in any class shall be
made in the following order: part-time, probationary, permanent.
Section 2. Probationary and permanent Fire Fighters shall be laid off on the basis
of service in the class being reduced, computed in accordance with Civil Service Rule 37,
the Fire Fighter with the least service being laid off first.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 44
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
ARTICLE 36. ENTRANCE SALARY RATES.
Section 1. Original appointment to any position shall be made at the entrance rate
and advancement from the entrance rate within a pay grade shall be by successive steps;
provided, however, if the entrance rate is the same as any successive step, appointment
shall be made at the highest step with the same rate of pay as the entrance rate. All
promotional appointments shall be to the entry level of the higher class which results in
at least a 3% increase unless it's the top step. If the entry level is the same as any
successive step, appointment shall be made at the highest step with the same rate of pay
as the entry level.
Section 2. At the completion of the first year of service, a Fire Fighter shall
automatically advance to the next higher rate in the appropriate pay grade, provided his
service has been determined by the Fire Chief to be satisfactory. Subsequently, the Fire
Fighter shall be automatically advanced to the next higher rate, if any, at the conclusion
of each succeeding year of satisfactory service in his class until he has reached the
maximum rate of the salary schedule for that class.
Section 3. At the conclusion of a satisfactory one (1) year probation period, the
Fire Chief shall certify that the probationary period has been successfully completed.
Section 4. When a Fire Fighter is assigned to duty in a position not previously held
by him and such change is not in the nature of a promotion or a demotion, the Fire Fighter
shall receive the rate of pay in the salary schedule established for such position that will
provide at least the same rate of pay he was receiving in his former position.
Section 5. If, in the opinion of the Fire Chief, the work of a Fire Fighter has not
been satisfactory during the year prior to his eligibility for salary advancement, he shall
give a statement to the Mayor and Personnel Director showing reason or reasons why
the Fire Fighter's work has not been satisfactory. A copy of this statement shall be
furnished the Fire Fighter concerned and the Fire Chief shall discuss with the Fire Fighter
the reason(s) for his not receiving the pay increases. Any Fire Fighter or the Union shall
have the right to the consideration of any request for adjustment in the event that the Fire
Chief states that the Fire Fighter's work in the preceding year has not been satisfactory
for salary advancement. In such case, the Fire Fighter or Union may submit the matter to
the grievance procedure of Article 25. A Fire Fighter who has been denied a pay increase
due to unsatisfactory work shall be granted such increase at such time as the Fire Chief
determines that his performance has sufficiently improved to justify the increase.
Section 6. In the event that the Fire Fighter did not receive the advancement in
salary due him under the provisions of the Article, and it is subsequently determined, in
the manner prescribed above, that the Fire Fighter was entitled to this advancement in
salary shall be paid to the Fire Fighter from the date on which he was originally entitled
to said advancement in salary.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 45
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
ARTICLE 37. APPOINTMENT PROBATIONARY.
All entrance appointments shall be probationary for a period of one year. All
promotional appointments shall be probationary for a period of six months, provided that,
any Fire Fighter who previously served in the position in the higher class to which he was
promoted, may be credited toward completion of his probationary period with such
temporary service not to exceed one hundred and fifty (150) days with the approval of the
Fire Chief. At the discretion of the Fire Chief, the probationary period for an entrance or
promotional appointment may be extended for an additional period not to exceed six (6)
months in cases where a Fire Fighter suffered illness or injury or missed greater than
one-third (1/3) of his/her regularly scheduled shifts preventing him/her from being
available for full evaluation during the probationary period.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 46
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
ARTICLE 38. LIGHT DUTY AND LIMITED DUTY ASSIGNMENT.
Section 1. Light duty or modified duty shall mean the temporary assignment of a
Fire Fighter to work with medical restriction of duty in the fire department due to a work -
related injury during any period in which the Fire Fighter would otherwise be eligible for
injury leave benefits. Such assignments shall be referred to within this Article as "Light
Duty". Light Duty assignments are limited to a maximum of six (6) months; provided,
however, the City may extend the Light Duty assignment until the Fire Fighter reaches
maximum medical improvement as determined by the City's designated physician.
Section 2. The salary of a Fire Fighter on Light Duty shall be at least equal to the
salary at which he was employed at the time of his injury or illness.
Section 3. During his period of temporary disability, a Fire Fighter shall be entitled
to pay pension contributions and shall continue to receive health -medical plan benefits,
and accrue credits for sick leave and vacation leave.
Section 4. Upon presentation of a doctor's certificate stating that the Fire Fighter
is physically capable of performing all the duties of the position in which he was working
at the time of his injury or illness he shall be returned to full duty in that class. If the Fire
Chief determines that the work of the Fire Fighter upon return to work is not satisfactory,
the Fire Chief may cause the Fire Fighter to be re-examined to determine his ability to
perform.
Section 5. Any Fire Fighter who refuses to cooperate in the placement program,
by failure to accept or continue in the Light Duty assignment, shall, as of any such refusal
be disciplined.
Section 6. Pregnancy Light Duty. Any Fire Fighter who is provided a temporary
assignment under this Article as a reasonable accommodation for pregnancy under the
ADA or the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act shall be considered a Light Duty assignment.
A pregnant Fire Fighter will be allowed to continue working Light Duty, without reduction
in regular pay including incentives, up to her delivery date unless otherwise advised by
her physician. Upon date of delivery, or sooner on physician's advice, the Fire Fighter
will be permitted to take leave consistent with Article 57.
Section 7. Limited duty shall mean a temporary assignment of a Fire Fighter to
work in the fire department with temporary medical restrictions of duty due to a non -work -
related injury or illness. Limited duty assignments shall be subject to the following
limitations and requirements:
(a) The Fire Chief or his designee shall decide on a case -by -case basis
if there are limited duty assignments available that fall within the restrictions that
the Fire Fighter has been placed under by his/her physician. The distribution of
limited duty assignments, removal from a limited duty assignment and/or refusal
to establish a limited duty assignment is solely the decision of the Fire Chief.
Requests for limited duty assignments shall not be unreasonably denied; provided,
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 47
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
however, denial of a request for a limited duty assignment which would result in
more than a total of four (4) limited duty and Light Duty assignments shall be
presumed reasonable, and such decision shall not be subject to the grievance
procedure.
(b) To be considered for a limited duty assignment, a Fire Fighter must
have work restrictions that are expected to last for at least thirty (30) days and
provide a signed statement by an authorized medical provider verifying the need
for limited duty for said period of time. If available, priority among limited duty
assignments shall be given to the Fire Fighter with the least amount of accrued
leave.
(c) No Fire Fighter who is injured in the commission of a criminal offense
or during any secondary employment shall be eligible for a limited duty assignment
with respect to such injury; nor shall any Fire Fighter be permitted to work any
secondary employment while on limited duty assignment.
(d) Except as provided herein, a limited duty assignment shall not
exceed three (3) months. The limited duty assignment will be accompanied by an
expectation meeting with the Fire Chief. Daily assignments will be assigned and
will be completed in a timely manner. If at the discretion of the Fire Chief these
expectations are not being met by the Fire Fighter, the limited duty assignment will
be terminated.
(e) The City may require Fire Fighters to be examined by the City's
designated health-care provider in order to obtain verifications, seek clarification
or additional information, confirm the ability to perform limited duty assignment or
provide a second opinion.
(f) It is the Fire Fighter's responsibility to ensure that any relevant
medical information required by the City related to the injury (or injuries) underlying
a limited duty assignment is provided promptly upon request, including follow-up
information, satisfactory clarification and updates.
(g) Light Duty assignments for work -related illnesses and injuries shall
take precedence over limited duty assignments for non -duty related injuries. A
Fire Fighter who is working in a limited duty assignment because of non -duty
related injury may be displaced from that limited duty assignment if the City needs
to place another Fire Fighter into a Light Duty assignment.
(h) A Fire Fighter who is on limited duty shall immediately notify the
Department when the Fire Fighter is available for normal duty and shall give the
Department a physician's statement indicating that the Fire Fighter may return to
normal duty.
(i) While on limited duty assignment the Fire Fighter may request leave
through the Deputy Chief. This leave will be converted to a 40 hour work week
based on a conversion factor of 1.4. This would include any use of sick leave,
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 48
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
vacation leave or personal holiday time.
Section B. Fire fighters assigned a Light Duty or limited duty assignment shall work
Group A work schedule.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 49
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
ARTICLE 39. ABOLITION OF POSITION.
Any Fire Fighter with civil service status in an abolished position shall, with the
approval of the Mayor, be:
(a) transferred, if a vacancy exists in another position in the same class, or
(b) promoted, if a vacancy exists in a position in another class for which the
Fire Fighter is eligible, or
(c) laid off and placed on a reinstatement list for the class for which he is
qualified, or
(d) demoted, or
(e) allowed to replace another Fire Fighter in accordance with Article 50.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 50
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
ARTICLE 40. REINSTATEMENT AND REEMPLOYMENT.
Section 1. When a Fire Fighter is reinstated in a position in the same class after a
separation from the Department of not more than four years, which separation occurred
through no fault of the Fire Fighter and not due to discreditable circumstances, such Fire
Fighter shall receive the rate in the salary schedule corresponding to the step rate
received at the time of separation and shall subsequently serve thereat for at least such
period as is normally required for advancement to the next higher salary rate. Any Fire
Fighter who is drafted or who leaves the City service to enter the active service of the
armed forces of the United States and who is subsequently reinstated to a position
previously held by him shall be entitled to receive a salary at the step rate to which he
would have been entitled had his service with the City not been interrupted by entry into
the armed forces. Any non -required reenlistment shall automatically terminate the
provisions of this Article for any such Fire Fighter.
Section 2. Whenever a former Fire Fighter is reemployed in the same class after
a voluntary separation from the City service of not more than two years, which separation
was not by action of the City or due to discreditable circumstances, such Fire Fighter may,
with the approval of the Mayor, receive the rate in the salary schedule corresponding to
the step rate received at the time of separation and shall subsequently serve thereat for
at least such period as is normally required for advancement to the next higher step or
salary rate.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 51
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
ARTICLE 41. APPOINTMENT TO VACANCY.
When the City fills a vacancy in the Fire Department the following priorities shall
apply in the order listed:
1. Reinstatement list - Consisting of Fire Fighters separated from a position in
that class due to layoff or other cause not the fault of the Fire Fighter. Fire fighters shall
be reinstated to the class in the reverse order of layoff from that class including Fire
Fighters placed on reinstatement lists in accordance with Article 40.
2. The City may then select from any of the following:
a. Reemployment List - Fire fighters previously separated at their
volition, in good standing.
b. Voluntary Demotion,
c. If a position is not filled through reinstatement, demotion, or re-
employment the City shall fill the position from a civil service eligible list in the following
manner:
(a) The Director shall forward a copy of the appropriate class
specification to the Civil Service Commission, with a request for certification of the names
of the three highest ranking persons on the appropriate eligible list. If any person with a
given numerical rating is certified from an eligible list, then any or all other persons with
that identical rating shall also be certified and may be appointed under this Section
consistent with and pursuant to Civil Service Rule 28.
(b) The Director may also request from the Commission further
information relating to the persons certified and to their application, examination or
certification process.
(c) If any person so certified fails to accept appointment to the
position, that person shall be removed from the list and the name of the person next
highest on the appropriate eligible list shall be certified. The Civil Service Commission
may retain on the eligible list the name of a person who refuses an appointment only upon
that person's request and for just cause. The Director may request removal from the list
of the name of a person who does not qualify for or meet a requirement of the position.
The Civil Service Commission shall grant such request and certify the name of the next
highest ranking eligible on the list, if the person so removed does not actually qualify or
meet requirements.
(d) If more than one vacancy is to be filled from an eligible list, the
Director may request certification of an additional name for the second and each
subsequent vacancy.
(e) If less than three names appear or remain on the eligible list,
the Mayor may either request that the Commission establish a new eligible list, or may
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 52
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
accept a certification of less than three names.
(f) If a person certified for appointment from an eligible list is
rejected or passed over twice, the Mayor may request removal of the person from that
eligible list. The Civil Service Commission may deny such request upon the basis of the
person's qualifications.
(g) After a certification, the Director shall select a committee of at
least three persons to evaluate the persons certified. No one from the bargaining unit
shall be an evaluator.
(h) After consultation with the involved department or bureau
head and the committee, the Director shall forward the names of all persons certified and
recommendations to the Mayor, who shall make the final appointment.
(I) The City shall notify each eligible certified for a vacancy of the
appointment and the appeal rights available hereunder. If not appointed, the highest
ranking eligible for each vacancy may appeal his rejection to the Civil Service
Commission by filing a written notice of appeal within five (5) days after receipt of the
notice of appointment. The Commission shall hear the appeal within (5) days of the filing
of the notice of appeal. The City and the individual appointed shall also be notified of the
hearing and be given an opportunity to be heard. The person filing the appeal shall have
the burden of proving that the Mayor's appointment was arbitrary, capricious or a clearly
unwarranted abuse of discretion. If the Commission sustains the appeal, the appointment
shall be vacated and the appellant shall be appointed to the position by the Mayor
pursuant to the decision of the Commission retroactive to the date of the original
appointment.
(j) The Commission shall render its decision within five (5) days
after the hearing which shall be final and binding subject only to judicial review pursuant
to Rule 106, C.R.C.P.
3. Open Examinations
(a) For vacancies existing in 2017 and thereafter, Civil Service
examination for the Emergency Medical Officer classification shall initially only be open
to Fire Fighters who meet the qualifications for such classification ("Internal List"). If no
applicant passes the examination or is otherwise certified or if all eligibles are removed
from the Internal List, the Mayor may request certification of a new eligible list composed
of qualified candidates from outside City employment ("External List"). Upon receipt of
such request, the Civil Service Commission shall create the External List, and the Civil
Service examination shall only be open to those applicants who are not Fire Fighters and
who meet the qualifications for such classification. If the External List was created
because no applicant passed the examination for the Internal List or no applicant was
otherwise certified for the Internal List, such External List shall expire six (6) months from
the date of the certification of such External List. If the External List was created because
all eligibles were removed from the Internal List, such External List shall expire upon the
date the Internal List was originally scheduled to expire.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 53
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
(b) For vacancies existing in 2018 and thereafter, Civil Service
examination for the Fire Engineer classification shall initially only be open to Fire Fighters
who meet the qualifications for such classification ("Internal List"). If no applicant passes
the examination or is otherwise certified or if all eligibles are removed from the Internal
list, the Mayor may request certification of a new eligible list composed of qualified
candidates from outside City employment ("External List"). Upon receipt of such request,
the Civil Service Commission shall create the External List, and the Civil Service
examination shall only be open to those applicants who are not Fire Fighters and who
meet the qualifications for such classification. If the External List was created because
no applicant passed the examination for the Internal List or no applicant was otherwise
certified for the Internal List, such External List shall expire in six (6) months from the date
of the certification of such External List. If the External List was created because all
eligibles were removed from the Internal List, such External List shall expire upon the
date the Internal List was originally scheduled to expire.
4. Any Fire Fighter who obtains a paramedic certification paid for by City,
pursuant to Article 58, as of January 1, 2027 shall keep and maintain the paramedic
certification for a minimum of eight (8) years of employment with the Fire Department.
The City shall pay for reasonable and customary costs associated with maintaining such
paramedic certifications.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 54
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
ARTICLE 42. RATE OF PAY ON DEMOTION.
When a Fire Fighter is demoted from a position in one class to a position in another
class having a lower pay grade, his rate of pay shall be determined as follows:
Section 1. When a Fire Fighter is demoted because of failure to satisfactorily
complete a probationary period in a promotional position, his pay rate shall be reduced to
the step in the pay grade he had been promoted from which he would be eligible for had
he not been promoted.
Section 2. When a Fire Fighter is demoted because of layoff procedures, his rate
of pay in the class to which he is demoted shall be the step in the pay grade nearest to,
but not exceeding, that of his rate of pay in the higher class, provided funds are available
in the case of layoff. In the event funds are not available, his rate of pay shall be the
highest step that can equitably be paid to all Fire Fighters similarly affected by the layoff.
The Mayor, with the approval of the City Council, may approve for such Fire Fighter a
salary rate equivalent to the salary rate he received at the time of his demotion.
Section 3. When a Fire Fighter is demoted due to unsatisfactory performance from
a position in one class to a position in a lower class, his rate of pay shall be reduced at
least one (1) step below the rate of pay he was receiving in the higher class, and shall be
reduced to a step within the pay grade for the class to which he is demoted.:
Section 4, When a Fire Fighter is voluntarily demoted from a position in one class
to a position in a lower class at his own request, the pay rate may remain the same
provided it does not exceed the maximum step of the pay grade for the lower class.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 55
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
ARTICLE 43. RECLASSIFICATION.
If a position is reclassified, the incumbent shall remain in the reclassified position
if the Director, with the approval of the Mayor, determines that he is qualified to perform
the duties of the reclassified position.
If the Director determines that the incumbent lacks the qualifications for the
reclassified position, the incumbent shall, with the approval of the Mayor, be:
(a) transferred if a vacancy exists in another position in the same class, or
(b) promoted, if a vacancy exists for which such Fire Fighter is eligible as a
result of examination, or
(c) laid off and placed on a reinstatement list for the class or position for which
he is qualified, or
(d) demoted, or
(e) allowed to replace another employee in accordance with Article 50.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 56
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
ARTICLE 44. REPORTING CHANGES IN DUTIES; RECLASSIFICATION.
Section 1. Any Fire Fighter or the Union may file a written request for classification
review of his position at any time. The request shall be filed with the Fire Chief who shall
forward the request to the Director of Personnel within ten days with his comments and
recommendations.
Section 2. The Director of Personnel shall act on any request involving an
individual position within thirty days, and on any request involving several positions as
promptly as possible, but not more than ninety days, after receipt of such request. The
Director shall not reclassify any position or group of positions without the approval of the
Mayor.
Section 3. The Director may, at any time, consistent with Section 4 review a
position or positions to insure proper classification.
Section 4. Neither the City, a Fire Fighter, nor representatives of either may
request a review for a position which has been reviewed within the previous six months.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 57
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
ARTICLE 45. APPEAL FROM CLASSIFICATION OR RECLASSIFICATION.
Written notice of classification, reclassification, or allocation of positions shall be
given by the Director to the Mayor, Fire Chief, affected Fire Fighters, and Union, at least
thirty days before such action shall become effective. Within ten days of receipt of said
notice or failure of the Director to take such action, the Fire Chief, affected Fire Fighter(s)
or Union may request a hearing thereon before the Civil Service Commission pursuant to
Chapter 12 of Title VI of the Code of Ordinances and Section 8-4 of the City Charter.
Within ten days after conclusion of the hearing the Civil Service Commission shall order
whether such action shall be sustained or rejected.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 58
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
ARTICLE 46. VACANCIES.
Section 1. Unless the Mayor declares, as herein provided, that the requirements
of the service demand that such position remain open, a vacancy shall exist whenever
the number of positions established by the budget exceeds the number of Fire Fighters
in such positions. Vacancies shall be filled as soon as the Director can certify to the
department head as provided in Article 41. The Mayor may, upon written notice to the
Director, determine that a position shall remain open for a period not to exceed one
hundred eighty-five (185) days. During the time the position is declared open, the eligible
list pertaining to that position shall remain frozen and no new list established until action
is taken on such position. When a position that has been held open is filled, such position
shall be filled by a person named on the appropriate eligible list that was in effect on the
date the Mayor declared such position open, even if that person's eligibility has otherwise
expired.
Section 2, When a vacancy occurs in any promotional classification, the
vacancies, if any, created in all lower classes due to promotional appointments created
by appointment to fill such vacancy shall be filled from the eligible lists for all lower classes
which were in effect on the date on which the vacancy was created in the higher class.
This does not pertain to entry level firefighter positions, and will in no event freeze the
current promotional lists.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 59
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
ARTICLE 47. STRIKES - DISRUPTION OF SERVICE.
It is hereby declared to be the public policy of the City of Pueblo since it has
accorded to the members of the classified service of the Fire Department all rights of labor
other than the right to strike or organize any work stoppage, slowdown or mass
absenteeism, therefore, Fire Fighters shall not strike, or organize any work stoppage,
slowdown or mass absenteeism during the term of this Agreement.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 60
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
ARTICLE 48. INTENT OF THIS AGREEMENT.
The intent and purpose of this Agreement is to establish agreed upon wages,
hours, terms and conditions of employment for all Fire Fighters in the bargaining unit
represented by the Union, which wages, hours, terms and conditions of employment shall
be set as forth in this Agreement for the term of this Agreement unless changes are
mutually agreed upon between the City and the Union.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 61
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
ARTICLE 49. PROMOTIONAL EXAMINATION REQUIREMENTS.
The City of Pueblo reserves the right to establish such minimum job descriptions
(specifications) and education, experience and service requirements to determine
eligibility for civil service testing and appointment for entry level Fire Fighters, as it deems
appropriate. Any ordinance in conflict with such right to establish minimum requirements
for entry level Fire Fighters shall, insofar as same may be applicable to Fire Fighters, be
deemed repealed and be of no force or effect.
The following minimum service requirements shall be a prerequisite to Civil Service
Fire Department promotional examinations:
(1) For Fire Prevention Inspector, two (2) years of service as a Fire Fighter with
the City of Pueblo.
(2) For Fire Engineers, a minimum of two (2) years of service as a Pueblo Fire
Fighter.
(3) For Emergency Medical Officer, a minimum of the EMT -I certification and
two (2) years of service as a Pueblo Fire Fighter or a minimum of a Paramedic certification
and at least three (3) years of continuous and successful experience in fire service.
Notwithstanding any provision of this Agreement to the contrary, any person appointed to
the position of Emergency Medical Officer who did not meet the foregoing service
requirement of two (2) years as a Pueblo Fire Fighter shall be treated as an entrance
appointment for purposes of rate of pay and probationary period.
(4) For Lieutenant, a total of five (5) years combined service in the Fire Fighter,
Engineer, Fire Prevention Inspector or Emergency Medical Officer classification with the
City and an ALS certification within 3 years of promotion which shall be a condition of
employment in such classification.
(5) For Captain, a total of seven (7) years combined service with at least two
(2) years of service in a promotional classification within the Fire Department and an ALS
certification.
(6) For Assistant Chief, three (3) years of service as a Captain with the City of
Pueblo.
The maximum number of seniority preference points which may be added to a
passing score pursuant to Civil Service Rule 25 with respect to the foregoing Fire
Department promotional examinations shall be seven and one half (7 '/2).
The Department shall make a good faith effort to work with Civil Service on
providing six (6) months prior notice of any change in a promotional reading list and the
promotional examination dates and three (3) months prior notice of promotional reading
list and examination date if no such change in the reading list.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 62
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
ARTICLE 50. REPLACEMENT.
Any Fire Fighter laid off shall, with the approval of the Mayor, have the right to
replace another Fire Fighter without prejudice to the right of either to reinstatement
provided the following requirements are met:
(1) The Fire Fighter to be replaced occupies a class having the same or lower
pay grade; and
(2) The Fire Fighter laid off has more total service in the class involved, together
with service in a higher class or parallel class (engineer, fire medic, or fire prevention
inspector) within the same line of promotion, than does the Fire Fighter to be replaced;
and
(3) The Fire Fighter laid off is qualified for the duties of the lower class of
position as determined by the Director; and
(4) The Fire Fighter to be replaced occupies a lower position in the line of
promotion to the position from which the Fire Fighter has been laid off.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 63
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
ARTICLE 51. DURATION OF AGREEMENT.
This Agreement shall be effective January 1, 2027, and all of its provisions shall
remain fully effective through December 31, 2027.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 64
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
ARTICLE 52. SAFETY.
Section 1. The City recognizes its responsibility to provide safe working conditions,
and the Union recognizes its obligation to cooperate in the maintenance and improvement
of those conditions.
Section 2,. The City agrees to establish a safety committee consisting of a
representative of the Union and a representative of the City.
Section 3. The safety committee will consider and make recommendations
concerning safety problems. Recommendations will include technical supporting
information where applicable.
Section 4. The safety committee shall convene within a reasonable time after a
request for a meeting. Any request must indicate the subject to be taken up at the
meeting. The City will submit a written position on safety matters raised by the Union
within ten (10) days after the meeting.
Section 5. Whenever possible, Department personnel will implement safety
recommendations of the Safety Committee.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 65
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
ARTICLE 53. LIABILITY INSURANCE.
City will carry in at least the minimum amounts set forth in the Colorado
Governmental Immunity Act malpractice liability insurance covering Fire Fighter/EMT'S
while acting in their capacity as an employee of the City and while licensed by the State
of Colorado.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 66
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
ARTICLE 54. SMOKE FREE WORKPLACE.
In accordance with City Council Resolution No. 7157, smoking by any member of
the bargaining unit is prohibited in all public buildings which are owned, leased or
controlled by the City of Pueblo, except in designated smoking areas, if any, located in
restaurants operated under concession or management agreements with the City.
For purposes of this agreement, the parties understand and agree that Fire
Fighters are prohibited from smoking: (a) in any fire department vehicle at any time; and
(b) in any fire station or fire department building except in those station truck rooms which
are equipped with a ventilation system which ventilates such truck room separately from
the remainder of the station.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 67
Docusign Envelope ID: 52480861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
ARTICLE 55. DEATH AND DISABILITY PLAN.
During the term of this Agreement, the City shall pay, on behalf of all Fire Fighters
hired after January 1, 1997, the state -mandated contribution for death and disability
coverage pursuant to C.R.S. § 31-31-811 (4).
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 68
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
ARTICLE 56. RANDOM DRUG TESTING.
The City and the Union agree to establish a committee consisting of
representatives of the Fire Union, the Police Union, and the City. The committee shall
meet, when requested by one of the parties, to study, consider and make
recommendations to the parties regarding drug -testing programs for public safety
employees. The consultations and recommendations of the committee shall not be
subject to the grievance/arbitration procedure of this Agreement and shall not be binding
upon any of the parties.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 69
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
ARTICLE 57. MATERNITY, PATERNITY, AND PARENTAL LEAVE.
Section 1. If a Fire Fighter is eligible to take leave under the Family and Medical
Leave Act (FMLA), such leave shall be granted in accordance with the provisions of FMLA
with respect to either the birth, adoption or bonding with a child following birth or adoption.
Such leave shall be subject to the following:
FMLA Maternity Leave — leave shall be granted in accordance with FMLA and shall
be treated as a qualifying health condition of the Fire Fighter for the purposes of
medical leave for the birth of a child and then subsequently for post-partum
bonding with the child.
A Firefighter taking FMLA leave for the purpose of maternity leave may use sick,
vacation and personal holiday leave to the cover the absence but must exhaust
available paid leave prior to going into an unpaid FMLA leave status.
FMLA Paternity Leave - leave shall be granted to an eligible Fire Fighter in
accordance with FMLA for the purpose of bonding with the child following birth.
FMLA Parental Leave — leave shall be granted to an eligible Fire Fighter in
accordance with FMLA for the purpose of bonding with an adopted child.
A Firefighter taking FMLA leave for the purpose of paternity or parental leave may
elect to use up to three (3) weeks of sick leave prior to using accrued vacation or
personal holiday leave for this purpose. However, the Fire Fighter must exhaust
all accrued vacation and/or personal holiday leave prior to going into an unpaid
FMLA leave status. The Family Care Act provides the same leave provisions for
those who are in a domestic partnership or civil union as defined in section 14-15-
103(5) C.R.S.
All requests for leave under FMLA must be submitted through the City's Human
Resources Department.
Consistent with FMLA, a Fire Fighter who takes FMLA leave for the birth, adoption
and/or subsequent bonding time with a child shall return to the job assignment from
which he/she took leave for this purpose at the conclusion of the FMLA leave.
Section 2. If a Firefighter is ineligible for leave under the Family and Medical Leave
Act, maternity, paternity and parental leave shall be granted for the purpose of giving birth
and/or bonding with the Fire Fighter's child. Such leave shall be granted equally in the
case of an adopted child. Such leave shall be subject to the following:
Maternity Leave — leave shall be granted upon provision of written documentation
from the Fire Fighter's treating physician for the purpose of giving birth followed by
post-partum bonding time with the child. Such leave shall not exceed twelve (12)
weeks from the date of the child's birth.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 70
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
A Firefighter taking maternity leave may use sick, vacation and personal holiday
leave to cover the absence but must exhaust available paid leave prior to going
into an unpaid leave status.
Paternity Leave = leave shall be granted at the time of childbirth, unless otherwise
approved by the Chief in advance, and shall not exceed three (3) calendar weeks.
Parental Leave — leave shall be granted at the time of the adoption of a child,
unless otherwise approved by the Chief in advance, and shall not exceed three (3)
calendar weeks.
A Firefighter taking paternity or parental leave may elect to use up to three (3)
weeks of sick leave prior to using accrued vacation or personal holiday leave for
this purpose. The exhaustion of paid leave is required prior to going into an unpaid
leave status.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 71
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
ARTICLE 58. PARAMEDIC INCENTIVE.
Section 1. DEFINITIONS. As used in this Article the following terms shall have
the following meaning:
(b) "Paramedic Program" shall mean a program of study approved by the City
and offered by an institution separate from the City which provides all necessary
instruction including clinical internship to obtain a Colorado state licensure as an EMT -
Paramedic. Both the program and the institution offering the Program must be approved
by the City.
(c) "Qualification Requirements" shall mean having a current Colorado EMT -
Basic certificate, an EMT intravenous endorsement and having the present ability to
successfully complete all pre-screening examinations and prerequisites and obtain
approval by the institution offering the Paramedic Program.
Section 2. PARAMEDIC CERTIFICATION INCENTIVE.
(a) On an annual basis and for purpose of receipt of the Paramedic Incentive,
the City shall accept voluntary applications from Fire Fighters who meet the Qualification
Requirements and the purpose of the Paramedic Incentive. The purpose of the
Paramedic Incentive shall be construed and applied consistent with the exception
provided for under 29 C.F.R. 785.29, and the Paramedic Incentive is stipulated and
acknowledged to be for the purpose of preparing an employee in the classification
firefighter for advancement to a higher classification ("Purpose"). The selection of the
applicants to receive the Paramedic Incentive shall be at the sole and absolute discretion
of City; provided, however, preference shall be given to those applicants who would start
the Paramedic Program prior to their third year of service with the City, and provided that
such discretion shall not be exercised in an arbitrary and capricious manner.
(b) Subject to budget approval and appropriation by City Council, the City shall
make available the Paramedic Incentive to two (2) applicants who meet the Qualification
Requirements and the Purpose. The City may make the Paramedic Incentive available
to additional applicants who meet the Qualification Requirements and Purpose but is not
obligated to do so.
(c) Any applicant selected to receive the Paramedic Incentive shall receive the
following benefits subject to the conditions and limitations herein set forth:
1. Upon receipt of an invoice from a City approved institution, the City
will pay the actual costs of tuition and books invoiced by said institution and
necessary for completion of the Paramedic Program.
2. Paid time off shall be granted to attend classroom instruction held
during the employee's regularly scheduled hours of work which are necessary for
completion of the Paramedic Program and which classroom instruction could not
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 72
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
be scheduled other than during the Fire Fighter's regularly scheduled hours of
work.
3. Field internship hours which cannot be completed on Fire
Department apparatus shall be scheduled outside of the Fire Fighter's regular
working hours; provided, however, paid time off will be granted to complete field
internship hours in such circumstances and during the Fire Fighter's regularly
scheduled hours of work, but such paid time off shall not exceed thirty-six (36)
hours during any calendar week for completion of the field internship.
(d) If a Fire Fighter fails to comply with any requirement set forth in this Article
or fails to timely and successfully complete any portion of the Paramedic Program
including but not limited to completing the field internship within a period of six months of
commencing the field internship or failure to pass the National Registry of Emergency
Medical Technicians exam within ninety (90) days of class end date, such Fire Fighter
shall be subject to removal from the Paramedic Program. The City shall give written
notice of the basis for removal to the Fire Fighter. If the basis for removal remains
uncorrected for a period of ten (10) days after City has given written notice, the Fire
Fighter shall be deemed removed from the Paramedic Program without further notice to
the Fire Fighter; provided, however, the Fire Fighter may file within said ten (10) days
written documentation with the City establishing that the failure of the Fire Fighter to timely
complete the Paramedic Program was the direct result of an unforeseen and extended
leave of absence due to a medical condition or similar emergency. Any Fire Fighter who
is unable to timely complete the Paramedic Program due to a qualifying unforeseen leave
of absence shall not be obligated to repay the Reimbursement Amount because of such
failure. Any Fire Fighter who is removed from the Paramedic Program or is unable to
timely complete same due to a qualifying unforeseen leave of absence shall not be eligible
to continue to receive the Paramedic Incentive, and City will have no obligation to continue
to provide the Paramedic Incentive for such Fire Fighter.
(e) Each Fire Fighter approved to receive the Paramedic Incentive shall apply
for the Colorado Opportunity Fund Stipend with respect to any tuition for the Paramedic
Program. Any Fire Fighter who fails to apply for such Stipend shall be liable to and shall
pay the City the amount of the Stipend. The amount of the Stipend may be deducted
and/or set off by the City from any payment or amount owed by City to the Fire Fighter;
provided such deduction and/or set off will not result in a wage payment less than the
amount required by the applicable minimum wage and/or overtime requirement under the
Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938, 29 U.S.C. §201, et seq.
(f) Any Fire Fighter receiving the Paramedic Incentive shall provide any and all
documentation requested by City with respect to compliance with any condition or
limitation related to the Paramedic Incentive,
Section 3. Union shall cooperate with the City in taking all actions necessary or
appropriate to assure that any period of time expended by a Fire Fighter to complete the
Paramedic Program which occurs outside the regularly scheduled hours of work of the
Fire Fighter shall not constitute hours worked for purposes of overtime pay or
compensatory time and to assure that any Fire Fighter prior to applying for the benefit is
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 73
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
aware and understands that any such hours shall not constitute hours worked for
purposes of overtime pay or compensatory time.
Section 4. As a condition of receiving the Paramedic Incentive, each Fire
Fighter approved to receive the Paramedic Incentive shall execute the Paramedic
Incentive Reimbursement Agreement in the form attached to this Agreement and labelled
Exhibit 1. The parties stipulate, acknowledge and agree that the costs of the Paramedic
Incentive and the amount of the reimbursement obligation (the "Reimbursement Amount")
to be set forth in the attached Exhibit 1 is $13,000, and said amount shall be subsequently
increased in like percentage by any percentage increase in the base wage paid the
firefighter classification for each year after 2019. The Reimbursement Amount which may
become due the City under the Paramedic Incentive Reimbursement Agreement may be
deducted and/or set off by City from any payment or amount owed by City to the Fire
Fighter; provided such deduction and/or set off will not result in a wage payment less than
the amount required by the applicable minimum wage and/or overtime requirement under
the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938, 29 U.S.C. §201, et seq.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 74
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
Entered into this day of 09/15/2026 r 2026.
INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF FIRE FIGHTERS LOCAL NO. 3
By
President
By
Secretary
CITY OF PUEBLO
Signed by:
By
Mayor
ATTEST:
DocuSigned by:
et8.-1-
City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Signed. by;.
City Attorney
Attorney for IAFF Local No. 3
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 75
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
EXHIBIT 1
PARAMEDIC TRAINING REIMBURSEMENT AGREEMENT
This PARAMEDIC TRAINING REIMBURSEMENT AGREEMENT ("Agreement")
is entered into this day of 20_, by and between Pueblo, a
municipal corporation ("City") and ("Employee").
WHEREAS, City and the International Association of Fire Fighters Local 3 have
entered into a Collective Bargaining Agreement which provides an incentive to
employees to achieve and maintain a Paramedic certification subject to and conditioned
upon the employee entering into this Agreement.
WHEREAS, Employee has voluntarily applied for and desires receipt of the
incentive subject to the limitations and requirements set forth in Article 58 of the
Collective Bargaining Agreement between the City and the International Association of
Fire Fighters Local 3 ("CBA").
WHEREAS, the costs and expenses to the City of providing and paying for the
incentive are significant and the City will be unable to recoup and/or receive the benefit
of such costs and expenses where the Employee prematurely leaves the employment of
the City or fails to obtain and maintain a Colorado State licensure as an EMT -
Paramedic.
NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing and the mutual promises,
covenants and conditions herein set forth, City and Employee agree as follows:
As used in this Agreement, the following terms shall have the following
meanings:
"Liquidated Credit" means twenty percent (20%) of the Reimbursement
Amount for each year of service after the date the Employee successfully
completes the Paramedic Program and is licensed by the State of
Colorado as an EMT -Paramedic. By way of example, the Liquidated
Credit for an employee who completes three years of service but not four
years of service after obtaining an EMT -Paramedic certificate would be
sixty percent (60%) of the Reimbursement Amount.
"Paramedic Program" and "Paramedic Incentive" shall have the same
meanings as are set forth in the CBA.
"Reimbursement Amount" means $ as calculated in
accordance with the CBA.
2. Employee shall receive the Paramedic Incentive subject to the limitations
and requirements set forth in the CBA and conditioned upon the employee entering into
this Agreement.
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 76
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
3. If the Employee is removed from the Paramedic Program pursuant to
terms of the CBA within the first 6 months of entering the program, the Employee shall
be liable to the City and obligated to pay the City the actual costs of books and tuition
and said amount shall become immediately due and payable upon the date the
Employee is removed from the Paramedic Program.
4. If the Employee is removed from the Paramedic Program pursuant to
terms of the CBA after the first 6 months, the Employee shall be liable to the City and
obligated to pay the City the Reimbursement Amount, and said amount shall become
immediately due and payable upon the date the Employee is removed from the
Paramedic Program.
5. In the event the Employee completes the Paramedic Program but fails to
keep and maintain Employee's licensure with the State of Colorado as an EMT -
Paramedic, Employee shall be liable to the City and obligated to pay the City the
Reimbursement Amount less any Liquidated Credit, and said amount shall become
immediately due and payable upon the date the Employee no longer has a valid
paramedic certification issued by the State of Colorado.
6. In the event the Employee terminates employment with the City,
Employee shall be liable to the City and obligated to pay the City the Reimbursement
Amount less any Liquidated Credit, and said amount shall become immediately due and
payable upon the date of such termination. This article shall not apply to members
whom terminate employment due to disability or normal retirement.
7. Any amount of the Reimbursement Amount which becomes due the City
may be deducted and/or set off by City from any payment or amount owed by City to
Employee; provided such deduction and/or set off will not result in a wage payment less
than the amount required by the applicable minimum wage and/or overtime requirement
under the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938, 29 U.S.C. §201, et seq.
8. Employee shall be liable to and will pay City for all collection expenses,
court costs and reasonable attorney fees which may be incurred in the collection of any
Reimbursement Amount which may become due and payable under this Agreement.
Venue for any action arising under this Agreement or for the enforcement of this
Agreement shall be in a state court with jurisdiction located in Pueblo County Colorado.
Executed and effective the day and year first above written.
CITY EMPLOYEE
Mayor Print Name:
IAFF 2027 Contract — Page 77
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861 -55A82 -8D A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
Exhibit A
AMENDMENT TO THE COLLECTIVE
BARGAINING AGREEMENT
This amendment to the collective bargaining agreement ("Amendment") is executed this y'
day of d . , 2019, by and between Pueblo, a municipal corporation (`:City„),
and International Association of Fire Fighters Local No. 3 ("Union") (collectively the "Parties").
WHEREAS, City and Union are parties to a collective bargaining agreement commencing
January 1, 2019 and ending December 31, 2019 ("Labor Agreement").
WHEREAS, the Parties are interested in transitioning from a fully -insured to a self -funded
health insurance plan ("Self -Funded Health Benefit Plan").
WHEREAS, in order to proceed with such transition, City desires and Union is willing to
agree to certain terms and conditions which will be applicable to such Self -Funded Health Benefit
Plan.
NOW THEREFOR, in consideration of the foregoing and the mutual covenants herein
contained, the Parties stipulate, acknowledge and agree as follows:
1. If the City elects after consultation with the Union to transition to a Self -Funded
Health Benefit Plan to be available in calendar year 2020 and thereafter, the following terms and
conditions shall govern such plan, shall bind the Parties and shall supersede any conflicting or
inconsistent provision of the Labor Agreement:
a. Plan Design. If a Self -Funded Health Benefit Plan is provided to covered
employees of Amalgamated Transit Union Division No. 662 ("Transit"),
the City, Transit, Pueblo Association of Government Employees,
International Brotherhood of Police Officers Local 537 and Union shall
meet as a committee and confer with respect to determining the health plan
design and benefits to be provided under such plan. Each party shall have
one vote for a total of five (5) votes with respect to selecting such health
plan design. The majority vote of the committee shall determine the plan
and benefits; provided, however, if no majority vote is cast or if the plan
and benefits selected will result in any increase in the current premiums,
the Mayor shall determine and select such plan and benefits.
Alternatively, if a Self -Funded Health Benefit Plan is not provided to
covered employees of Transit, the City, Pueblo Association of Government
Employees, International Brotherhood of Police Officers Local 537 and
Union shall meet as a committee and confer with respect to determining the
health plan design and benefits to be provided tinder such plan. Each party
shall have one vote for a total of four (4) votes with respect to selecting such
health plan design. The majority vote of the committee shall determine the
plan and benefits; provided, however, if no majority vote is cast or if the
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
plan and benefits selected will result in any increase in the current
premiums, the Mayor shall determine and select such plan and benefits.
b. Premiums and Contributions. Premiums shall be determined by City based
upon the recommendation of City's insurance broker consultant, the plan
design chosen pursuant to above Subsection l.a., and the funding level
acceptable to City. Employees who are eligible and select an offered plan
shall pay the cost of any applicable premium by payroll deduction subject
to the contributions herein provided. The City shall pay 95% of the actual
premium for an individual policy per month. The City shall pay 78% of the
actual cost of a premium toward the cost of a single plus spouse, single plus
child or children or family policy per month for employees. If the employee
elects coverage under a PPO option, if offered, the City's contribution to
payment for such PPO shall be in the same dollar amount as if the employee
had elected coverage under the HMO Tier I option for the same coverage
tier. If an employee elects coverage under a high deductible health plan
with Health Savings Account ("High Deductible HSA"), if offered, the
City's monthly contribution for the High Deductible HSA shall be One
Hundred Dollars ($100.00) per month less than monthly contribution
required for the City's HMO Tier 1 plan, at the same coverage tier, and the
City will contribute Sixty Six Dollars and 67 Cents ($66.67) per month to
each employee's health savings account under such High Deductible HSA.
Self -Funded Contracts and Documents. All contracts, programs and
documents necessary to transition to and administer the Self -Funded Health
Benefit Plan shall be determined and selected by City including but not
limited to all costs and expenses of administrations, any third -party
administration, if selected, stop loss policy, if selected, HIPAA privacy and
security policies, and plan administration policies and procedures.
d. Plan assets. All assets of the Self-Fundcd health Benefit Plan, including
but not limited to premiums, reserves and reimbursements, shall be the
property of the City to be used solely for providing benefits for enrolled
employees and assuring funding of the Self -Funded Health Benefit Plan at
a risk level acceptable to City.
2. For calendar year 2020, the Union waives any present or future right, contingent or
otherwise, that it may have to negotiate any change to the terms and conditions of this Amendment
in any successor collective bargaining agreement. The intent and purpose of the foregoing waiver
is that the Self -Funded Health Benefit Plan available in calendar year 2020 shall be subject to and
governed by the terms and conditions of this Amendment, and this Amendment shall be construed
and applied consistent with such intent and purpose. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the City shall
not be prohibited or otherwise limited by this Amendment from asserting or otherwise maintaining
in any future negotiation of a successor collective bargaining agreement that any term or condition
of this Amendment is not a mandatory subject of bargaining.
Docusign Envelope ID: 52480861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
3. To the extent the parties negotiate a successor contract to the Labor Agreement
which provides for extension of the collective bargaining agreement in calendar year 2021 or 2022
and if the City provides a Self -Funded Health Benefit Plan in calendar year 2020 and if the City
does so elect to extend the term of such successor collective bargaining agreement for calendar
year 2021 or 2022, the Union may commence negotiations after receipt of notice of such election
with respect to the terms and conditions of this Amendment by serving notice pursuant to Section
8-14, City Charter, on or before June 20, 2020 or June 20 2021, as applicable. If the Union
exercises such option to open negotiations with respect to the terms and conditions of this
Amendment, no other provision of the collective bargaining agreement shall be opened for
negotiations.
4. With respect to any provision relating to determining plan design during any
subsequent calendar year negotiation for a successor collective bargaining agreement after 2020,
including any reopening as set forth in above Section 3, the parties expressly stipulate and agree
that the then current provisions for determining plan design shall govern the method and manner
in which the plan design is selected for the following calendar year even though such provisions
may be amended in the successor agreement.
5. Should the City elect to discontinue the Self -Funded Health Benefit Plan, the
provisions of the Labor Agreement applicable to a fully -insured health benefit plan shall be
reinstated.
6. Union expressly stipulates, acknowledges and agrees that City is materially relying
upon the faithful performance of each and every provision of this Amendment, and without this
Amendment, including eachand every provision, the City would not consider proceeding with a
transition from a fully funded health insurance plan to a Self -Funded Health Benefit Plan.
7. This Amendment represents the entire agreement between the Parties and
supersedes all prior discussions and written agreements or understandings with respect to the
subject matter of this Amendment. This Amendment may be amended only by an instrument in
writing signed by the Parties. If any provision of this Amendment is held invalid or unenforceable,
no other provision shall be affected by such holding, and all of the remaining provisions of this
Amendment shall continue in full force and effect. This. Amendment may be executed in multiple
counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original, and all of which together constitute one
and the same agreement.
8. This Amendment shall be construed in accordance with and governed by the laws
of the State of Colorado.
9. This Amendment shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the parties and
their respective successors and assigns.
10. The persons signing this Amendment on behalf of Union represent and warrant that
such parties and Union have the requisite power and authority to enter into, execute, and deliver
this Amendment and that this Amendment is a valid and legally binding obligation of Union
enforceable against Union in accordance with its terms.
Docusign Envelope ID: 524B0861-5A82-8D20-80CE-0179AB2A19AE
Executed at Pueblo, Colorado, the day and year first above written.
UNION
INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF
FIRE FIGHTERS, LOCAL NO. 3
CITY
Pueblo, a municipal corporation
ATTEST:
City Clerk