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Speakers urge council to approve firefighters' and other union contracts
Summary
Multiple union representatives and residents urged the council to approve pending labor contracts, saying contracts would correct low pay, protect benefits and strengthen public services; speakers included Paul Mata (Local 760) and Michael Downs (substitute teachers' federation).
Paul Mata, representing Hartford Firefighters Local 760, asked the council to vote in favor of a negotiated contract he described as "fair and sustainable" and said the agreement would provide a long-overdue wage increase, protect jobs and improve morale across the department.
"This agreement represents a balance," Mata said, urging the council to consider the contract as a step toward stabilizing services amid record call volumes.
Several other speakers voiced support for pending contract approvals. Michael Downs, president of the Hartford Federation of Substitute Teachers, said he supported the contracts on the agenda, and Joe Young also voiced support for firefighters’ contract requests during public comment.
Speakers characterized the contract approvals as necessary to retain trained staff, protect benefits and address affordability for public employees. No formal vote occurred during the public-comment period; the speakers’ remarks were appeals to the council ahead of forthcoming agenda action.
