The Courier-News recently published a story highlighting how Carpentersville managed to save two firefighters from being laid off, thanks to a collaborative effort between village officials and the union representing Local 4790 of the International Association of Fire Fighters.

Due to a $400,000 budget shortfall, the village had initially planned to cut two full-time firefighters and three civilian staff members. Additionally, four part-time positions across different departments were also at risk. However, after learning about the potential layoffs, union members stepped in to negotiate a solution that would preserve jobs while still addressing the financial challenges.

The resulting agreement involved adjusting work schedules and designating "swing shift" employees who would not be on regular duty shifts — which typically consist of 24 hours on followed by 48 hours off. Instead, these employees would cover shifts when others are on vacation or taking time off. This change is expected to eliminate the need for overtime pay for firefighters filling those roles, saving the village approximately $85,000 annually.

Village Manager Mark Rooney emphasized that cutting staff or services is always a last resort. He noted that if the new schedule works as intended, no additional full-time firefighters will be laid off during the current collective bargaining agreement, which runs through 2016.

In response, the union has withdrawn a grievance it filed earlier this month over the proposed layoffs. The agreement has been welcomed by Lt. Rick Nieves, president of Local 4790. “We used to have 13 firefighters on duty every day, but now we’re down to 10 on certain days,” he said. “So there’s still work to do with the village, but for now, we’re here and we’ll deal with it.”

This development comes amid broader changes in staffing. In 2010, the village employed 207 full-time workers. Through reorganization, layoffs, and not filling open positions, that number has dropped to 175 today. Personnel and labor costs make up roughly 70% of the village’s total expenses, according to Rooney.

Thanks, Dan.

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