In May 1971, the Local #574 International Association of Firefighters was recognized by City Council as a bargaining agent. The first contract was issued in 1973. At the time the City of Savannah was one of the few cities in Georgia to recognize unions and engage in collective bargaining. Since that time the City of Savannah has continued to bargain in good faith.

Through multiple meetings this summer, the City and Local #574 have negotiated amendments to the Labor-Management Agreement approved by City Council on January 1, 2008, and expired on December 31, 2012. The parties have reached an agreement for approval. 

The proposed agreement will be attached to this agenda item prior to the September 13, 2018, City Council Meeting.