Commission approves MOU for permanent part-time paramedic positions despite union sticking points

The Fitchburg EMS Commission approved a memorandum of understanding to create a permanent part-time, represented paramedic position intended to guarantee 24 hours a week and preserve benefits parity while addressing staffing shortages. The MOU was untabled, discussed at length, and then approved by roll-call vote.

Commission members and the chief described the positions as part of a multi-year plan to add peak-time staffing and eventually convert roles to full-time by around 2030. The chief explained the rationale: creating represented permanent part-time positions should "incentivize the position" and provide guaranteed hours and benefits while avoiding sudden large hires.

Union negotiators had requested language that would limit those employees to 24 hours a week to prevent representation issues; the chief said he was not willing to accept a hard 24-hour cap that would bar employees from picking up additional shifts. "I am not okay with that," the chief said, summarizing management's position. Commissioners debated the potential for reversion to full-time and agreed to an 18-month trial window. The motion passed by roll-call; commissioners recorded ayes during the vote.