Valley View council ratifies contracts with service workers, police and firefighters

Mayor Matthew March announced three ordinances on Dec. 22 authorizing collective‑bargaining agreements with full‑time service division workers, Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #67 and IAFF Local 2634 firefighters and asked council to ratify summaries while attorneys finish final contracts. Law Director Lambros described “the gist of the contract” as “4‑3‑3” and said a significant change is to “switch from a fixed dollar amount on the insurance premiums to an 11% premium that moves obviously as our rates move.”

Clerk‑Treasurer Mary Snyder told council the budget analysis shows the village can afford the ratifications; Snyder said the effect on employees’ share of insurance “is about the same” but acknowledged employee contributions would rise if premiums increase. Council members also noted specific contract provisions: the day after Thanksgiving will be added as a holiday and police field‑training officers will receive an increase from one to two hours of pay.

Councilman Spieth moved and Councilman Paulson seconded a motion to ratify the three contract summaries and authorize the mayor to proceed with final agreements; the motion passed by roll call, 5–0. Mayor March said the agreements were negotiated starting in September to avoid retroactive pay and that department heads and local mayors reviewed the terms.

The ordinances were introduced on first reading so the mayor could obtain finalized contract documents from attorneys; council authorized the mayor to sign once final contracts are brought forward. No changes to part‑time employees’ status were made; Mayor March said part‑timers are not included in the union agreements.