Orange County Approves Historic Collective Bargaining Agreement Supporting Frontline Public Safety Personnel

Orange County, FL - Orange County Mayor Jerry L. Demings and the Orange County Board of County Commissioners today unanimously approved a new Collective Bargaining Agreement between Orange County and the Orange County Fire Fighters Association (IAFF Local 2057) for Fiscal Years 2024-25 through 2026-27.

The three-year agreement represents a significant investment in the County's frontline public safety workforce, including firefighters [i.e., FF/EMT, FF/PM Engineers, Lieutenants, Captains], EMTs, Paramedics, Dispatchers, Plans Examiners and Fire Inspectors, and reinforces Orange County's commitment to maintaining a highly trained, competitive, and capable all-hazard emergency system.

"This agreement reflects our deep appreciation for the dedicated men and women who serve our community every day under demanding and often dangerous conditions," said Mayor Jerry L. Demings. "By making strategic investments in our emergency personnel, Orange County is strengthening public safety, enhancing workforce stability, and ensuring we continue to deliver the highest level of service to our residents and visitors."

The agreement covers nearly 1,500 unionized public safety professionals and includes substantial compensation increases designed to strengthen recruitment and retention efforts across the Orange County Fire Rescue Department.

Under the approved contract:

• Starting salaries for firefighters will increase from $47,258 to $59,072, with compensation rising to $62,025 upon completion of the department's 10-week orientation program - representing an overall increase of approximately 31%.
• Starting salaries for firefighter/paramedics will increase from $57,011 to $70,959, with compensation increasing to $73,909 following completion of the 10-week orientation program - representing an overall increase of approximately 30%.

Additional Agreement Highlights

Healthcare Transition

• Union employees will transition from the County's current medical plan to a dedicated employee health insurance trust.
• County funding will support the implementation and operation of the union-managed healthcare plan.
• The healthcare trust is scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2027.

Continued Salary Progression

• Employees covered under the agreement will continue receiving annual 5% salary step increases, recognizing experience, longevity, and professional development.

County leadership emphasized that the agreement balances responsible fiscal stewardship with the operational needs of one of the nation's fastest-growing regions.

The approved agreement further advances Orange County Fire Rescue's mission of protecting lives and property through exceptional emergency response, preparedness, and public service, while positioning the County to remain competitive in attracting and retaining highly qualified public safety professionals for years to come.