Submitted By: Todd Swanson
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Presentation By: Chris Watt
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Department: Human Resources and Risk Management
FORMAL TITLE:
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Successor collective bargaining agreement between the City of Ocala and the International Association of Firefighters, Local 2135, Firefighter and Officer Bargaining Unit, for the period October 1, 2026, through September 30, 2029
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OCALA’S RELEVANT STRATEGIC GOALS:
Operational Excellence, Fiscally Sustainable
PROOF OF PUBLICATION:
N/A
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BACKGROUND:
On March 24, 2026, the parties began negotiating the terms of a three-year collective bargaining agreement (CBA). On July 9, 2026, a tentative agreement was reached. The IAFF Local 2135 held a ratification vote August 12-14, 2026.
FINDINGS AND CONCLUSIONS:
A tentative agreement has been reached, and the IAFF Local 2135 has ratified the CBA. Staff recommends that the City Council approve the proposed agreement.
FISCAL IMPACT:
The three-year incremental cost associated with this agreement is estimated at $8.7 million. The cost for Fiscal Year 2026-2027 has been incorporated into the proposed Fiscal Year 2026-27 budget. The remaining cost will be budgeted in the fiscal year in which it is incurred.
PROCUREMENT REVIEW:
N/A
LEGAL REVIEW:
The contract has been reviewed and approved for form and legality by the City’s Labor Attorney, John W. Keller of Allen Norton & Blue, P.A.
ALTERNATIVE:
• The City would continue to bargain to reach an acceptable agreement.