Margate approves three-year collective bargaining agreement with firefighters

The City of Margate on Feb. 18 approved a collective bargaining agreement with the International Association of Firefighters Local 3080 that covers the period from Oct. 1, 2025, through Sept. 30, 2028.

Brian Palmer, the union representative who said he represents the city’s firefighters and IAFF Local 3080, thanked city negotiators and described the agreement as a step toward retaining and recruiting firefighters. "The Margate professional firefighters are proud and thankful to come to an agreement," Palmer said.

City staff and commission members said the deal includes significant pay increases (details provided to the commission in closed negotiations) intended to make Margate more competitive in hiring. City Manager Kale Curtis and the city's negotiation team were thanked by Palmer during remarks on the floor.

Commissioners discussed the contract in the context of broader uncertainty over property-tax proposals being debated at the state level, which some said could reduce local revenues and complicate future public-safety funding. Vice Mayor Casciano and others noted their support for the agreement despite unknown future state actions.

The resolution to adopt the agreement was moved and seconded and passed by roll call vote with all members voting "Yes." No amendments or additional conditions were recorded in the public meeting record.

The commission did not specify an implementation timetable beyond the contract's effective dates; staff indicated the agreement will take effect as written and be administered by the city's human resources and fire department leadership.

The commission adjourned the discussion after the roll call and moved on to later agenda items.