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Everett council approves 2026–2029 contract with IAFF Local 46
Summary
The Everett City Council authorized Mayor Franklin to sign a collective bargaining agreement with IAFF Local 46 covering 2026–2029 after hearing testimony from the union vice president about firefighter safety and staffing; the motion passed by roll call vote.
The Everett City Council on March 18 authorized Mayor Franklin to sign a collective bargaining agreement with IAFF Local 46 that covers 2026 through 2029.
The contract authorization followed remarks from Jason Brock, vice president of IAFF Local 46 and a career Everett firefighter, who framed the agreement as a product of year-long negotiations that balanced firefighter safety and the city’s fiscal constraints. Brock said the union represents 186 Everett firefighters and recounted recent rescues and on-the-job injuries, noting long-term health risks including cancer and post-traumatic stress tied to repeated traumatic calls. “We respectfully ask for your support and your yes vote on this contract so that we can continue protecting this community with safety, dignity, and the stability our firefighters deserve,” Brock said.
Council considered the motion moved by Vice President Ryan; the clerk recorded a roll call that showed affirmative votes by Council member Zarlingo, Council member Burbano, Council member Tui, Council member Weer, Vice President Ryan and President Schwab. The motion passed with no abstentions recorded.
Why it matters: The contract provides a multi-year framework for wages, medical and workplace protections for frontline firefighters, whom the union said face elevated occupational risks and frequent exposure to traumatic incidents. Council members and city negotiators said the agreement was reached while attempting to limit rate impacts and keep the city’s broader fiscal picture in view.
Details from the record: Jason Brock thanked city staff who participated in talks, including the mayor’s office and the city’s HR team, and Assistant Chief Paul Gagnon. Brock cited recent incidents in which Everett firefighters performed life-saving rescues, and referenced an Everett captain currently battling lymphoma as an example of occupational health impacts raised in bargaining.
What’s next: The authorization allows the mayor to execute the agreement and direct implementation steps with fire administration and HR. Council did not specify further council-level actions tied to this contract during the meeting.
