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Montgomery County Council approves FY2026 memorandum of agreement with volunteer firefighters
Summary
The Montgomery County Council unanimously approved a memorandum of agreement with the Montgomery County Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association that the county executive had budgeted for in FY26; the agreement carries an approximate FY26 fiscal impact of $90,000 for length‑of‑service increases, operating funds, and nominal fee adjustments.
The Montgomery County Council voted unanimously to approve a memorandum of agreement between the county and the Montgomery County Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association (MCVFRA) for fiscal year 2026.
Councilmember Wellens, chair of the Public Safety Committee, told the Council the resolution indicates the body’s intent to approve appropriations to fund bargained terms negotiated between the county executive and the MCVFRA and that the FY26 items total approximately $90,000. Wellens said the package includes a 4% increase in length‑of‑service awards consistent with Bill 41‑23, an $11,497 boost to association operating funds, and an adjustment to a nominal fee that varies by volunteer and produces about $73,000 in fiscal impact.
“Happy to answer any questions that you may have,” Wellens said while introducing county staff and the association’s executive director.
MCVFRA Executive Director Bernard thanked the Council for its support of volunteers, noting the county relies on nearly 1,400 volunteers who provide operational resources alongside career firefighters.
Councilmember Friedson moved approval of the committee recommendation; the motion received a second from Council Vice President Giuanda and the Council passed the measure by a unanimous hand vote.
The action funds negotiated terms already assumed in the county executive’s proposed budget and moves the agreement toward formal appropriation as part of the FY26 operating budget process.
