Dear Members,

The Administration has once again created a dispute claiming the union business performed during the IAFF Local 244 President’s workweek is against city policy and unlawful. As fire and rescue personnel we take an oath to serve and protect life and property. As fire union officers we are elected to represent job integrity and keep personnel safe so that our oath can be fulfilled. The IAFF Local 244 Executive Board is committed to serving and protecting you and your family. We have several unprecedented disputes with the city administration which are waste of time and valuable resources. Let’s not forget the hefty price tag that comes with these disputes; such as the President’s workweek where District Court has ruled against the city proving that we are not “illegal” representatives of hard working firefighters and paramedics. This is a blatant disregard for what has been established by former leadership and for the hard earned tax money that has been spent to advance their unwarranted attacks on us. Albuquerque's citizens also pay for private negotiators that do not benefit from mutual agreements but profit from impasse and disagreement between labor and management.

Great leadership is what made the Albuquerque Fire Department and Bernalillo County Fire Department what they are today, among the best departments in the country. For decades IAFF Local 244 representatives have served in legislative sessions, departmental policy committees, city council and the mayor’s office on many subjects to include firefighter safety, equipment, staffing parameters, pension solvency, training, membership counseling, laws that effect fire and rescue personnel and most importantly public safety. The city and state do not waste time balancing the budget as it is required by law. So, it is imperative that we have a voice and a presence in government to lend our perspective and insight to achieve amicable solutions that preserve our member’s best interest and keep the public as safe as possible. Labor/management policies have earned their place in city governance and have proven to be beneficial to all of us taxpayers and citizens alike.

Despite our efforts in offering concession after concession, the end results of negotiations are uncertain with only the city's private negotiator benefiting from months of negotiation sessions. Our negotiating team is standing strong and is committed to protecting the integrity of our profession, never forgetting the sacrifices that our forefathers made for us. Even though this administration does not value the significance of our essential service we must continue to serve with the level of professionalism the citizens of Albuquerque deserve.

It is important to remember that these attacks on us are meant to discourage us from organizing, create apathy and dissent. We must withstand these attacks with firm resolve and respond with a well organized campaign to educate the public on the truth. Our voice is powerful and it is time that it be heard! I would like to acknowledge the AFD Retiree Association and President Sam Trujillo for their unwavering support and guidance during these difficult times.

http://www.firehouse.com/news/10623495/albuquerque-fire-union-at-odds-over-firefighter-trip

Please click on link to read the support letters below from retired Chief Ortega, Deputy Chief Pearce, Deputy Chief Montoya and Lt. Goodyear:

Fraternally,

Diego Arencón, President

IAFF Local 244