The *Hoffman Estates Daily Herald* recently published an article detailing a significant development in the ongoing negotiations between the village and its firefighters’ union. After months of discussions, both parties have finally reached a new six-year contract, replacing the original three-year agreement that had been under dispute for some time.
Village Manager Jim Norris expressed his satisfaction with the outcome, emphasizing that the resolution was achieved without the involvement of attorneys. “This is a win for everyone involved,†he said. “It shows what can be accomplished when both sides are willing to work together.â€
The previous contract, which was initially approved through arbitration last summer, covered the period from January 1, 2012, to December 31, 2014. However, the village officials appealed the decision, primarily due to one specific clause: the allowance of 72 hours of unpaid leave per year that could be used, accrued, or cashed out. With 83 firefighters on staff, this policy was seen as a logistical and financial challenge for the village.
As part of the new agreement, this provision has been reduced to 48 hours annually, with the requirement that any unused time must be taken or paid out within the same year it’s earned. This change aims to ease scheduling and budget concerns while still providing some flexibility to the firefighters.
In terms of salary increases, the new contract maintains the original structure: a 2.5% raise in 2012, no increase in 2013, and another 2.5% in January 2014. Additionally, the agreement includes further raises—1% in March 2014, and 1% on January 1 and June 1 of 2015, 2016, and 2017. These incremental increases were designed to provide stability over the extended six-year term.
Union President Dean Slater also voiced his approval, highlighting that the agreement was reached with a focus on balancing firefighter benefits with fiscal responsibility. “We wanted a deal that supported our members while helping the Village manage its finances,†he said.
The settlement was officially announced by the Hoffman Estates village website, which stated that the new contract covers the period from January 1, 2012, to December 31, 2017. The agreement resolves the previous appeal related to the arbitration award and includes several key changes, such as the adjustment of personal leave and wage increases over the years.
Mayor William D. McLeod praised the collaborative effort, saying, “I want to thank both teams for their dedication and open communication throughout this process.â€
Local 2061 Union President Dean Slater echoed those sentiments, adding, “This agreement reflects the hard work of both sides and the commitment to finding a fair solution for everyone involved.â€
Thanks Dan.
Thanks Dennis.
Water Heater Heat Pump
Introduction to GENT water heater heat pump
Air source water heater heat pump is a high-efficiency and energy-saving hot water supply unit. The unit heats water by absorbing heat from the air. Heat pump hot water is divided into inverter unit and fixed frequency unit. This classification mainly talks about inverter heater pump water heater.
What is inverter hot water pump heater?
A variable frequency heat pump water heater refers to a heat pump water heater that dynamically matches the heat load demand by adjusting the compressor frequency (speed) to achieve stepless speed operation. This type of heat pump unit has more precise water temperature control and does not require frequent start and stop, which can effectively control the unit operating costs and extend the service life of the unit.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of variable frequency heat pump water heater?
1. Advantages
â‘ Energy-saving: The best heat pump hot water can automatically adjust the frequency to avoid energy waste.
â‘¡Stable water temperature: Water temperature fluctuations will be reduced, which can greatly improve comfort.
â‘¢Extended life: The variable frequency unit will not start and stop frequently, which can reduce the impact of the compressor start and stop on the components, making the service life of this unit reach more than 15 years.
â‘£Excellent low temperature performance: When the ambient temperature is extremely low (needs to be within the applicable ambient temperature range of the unit), the unit can run at high frequency to ensure the heating effect of the unit.
2. Disadvantages
â‘ Higher price: 20%~40% more expensive than fixed frequency models.
â‘¡Complex control: The circuit system is more technically difficult and the maintenance cost is slightly higher.
What scenarios are suitable for variable frequency heat pump water heater?
1. Large daily hot water demand (such as families with more than 4 people or commercial use), so the unit is not only a water heater heat pump for house, but also a Commercial Heat Pump water heater.
2. Pursuit of comfort (such as mother-child families, high-end hotels)
3. Areas with winter temperatures below -5℃
4. Sufficient budget and focus on long-term energy-saving returns
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