Mayor Eddie D. Melton and City of Gary Push Go on a Historic Contract with Gary Fire Fighters’ Union, Ending 23-Year Pause

Mayor Eddie D. Melton and the Gary Common Council have signed a new 2026–2028 Labor-Management Agreement with the Gary Firefighters Association Local 359, modernizing a contract last ratified in 2003. The updated agreement improves clarity, formalizes current practices, and reflects the administration’s commitment to public safety, strong labor relations, and accountable leadership.

"This is a new day for the City of Gary and for the brave men and women who keep our community safe," said Mayor Eddie D. Melton. "For over two decades, our firefighters have answered the call and done their jobs with excellence, despite the lack of a formal agreement. Today, we are correcting that history. This contract represents our administration's unwavering commitment to public safety, fair compensation, and mutual respect. We are proud to stand with our firefighters."

The formalized agreement outlines several key updates designed to improve recruitment, retention, and department stability without increasing City costs beyond necessary safety measures:

• Compensation & Benefits: Formalizes the firefighter base salary at $56,650. Memorializes longevity increases up to $2,500 per year and restores the clothing allowance to $1,500 per year. Firefighters will also pay the same health insurance rates as other City employees.

• Health & Safety: Implements NFPA 1582 annual physicals, an essential addition for firefighter health and safety.

• Operational Clarity: Clarifies minimum staffing at three personnel per apparatus, matching current practice. It also grants the City the right to appoint the Deputy Fire Chief from within the department.

• Professional Development: Expands education pay to include any accredited degree and expands certification pay into four divisions.

• Workplace Protections: Introduces a comprehensive grievance process and features inclusive language updates, including expanded nondiscrimination protections and modernized bereavement definitions.

Union leadership echoed the significance of the day, emphasizing the relief and validation the new contract brings to the rank and file.

“For more than twenty two years, the firefighters of Local 359 have shown up to serve the people of Gary without the basic protections a contract should provide,” said Kevin Benford, President of the Gary Firefighters Association Local 359. “Through it all, our firefighters never stopped showing up for this community. Mayor Melton and his administration recognized that commitment and came to the table ready to work with us. This agreement represents long overdue respect and appreciation for the firefighters who give their all to help make the City of Gary safer and stronger.”

The impact of the agreement was also recognized at the state level, highlighting the broader importance of fair labor practices for first responders.

"Firefighters deserve to work with dignity, safety, and the security of a fair contract," stated Tony Murray, President of the Professional Fire Fighters Union of Indiana. "What Local 359 has endured for over two decades without a contract is unprecedented, but today's signing is a testament to the power of persistent advocacy and a city administration willing to do the right thing. The Professional Fire Fighters Union of Indiana proudly stands with our brothers and sisters in Gary as they close this chapter and step into a stronger, more secure future."

Fire Chief Larry Tillman emphasized the positive impact this agreement will have on the department. "This agreement is a massive boost to the morale of our ranks," stated Chief Tillman. "Our firefighters have always put the citizens of Gary first, and it is incredible to see the Mayor and this administration put them first in return. This contract provides the stability and support we need to continue providing top-tier emergency services to our city."

The historic nature of the signing was celebrated by city leadership, recognizing the patience and dedication of the fire department.

"After more than 22 years without a contract, today marks a historic moment for our firefighters and for the City of Gary," stated Linda Barnes Caldwell, Council President. "Our fire department has continued to serve this community with courage and dedication despite the lack of a formal agreement. This contract represents fairness, respect, and our commitment to supporting the men and women who put their lives on the line every day to protect our residents."

The fiscal impact of the agreement primarily reflects existing practices already budgeted by the City, with the necessary NFPA 1582 physicals adding a roughly $150,000 adjustment to support employee health. The City of Gary and the Gary Firefighters Association Local 359 look forward to a renewed partnership built on this foundational agreement.

About the City of Gary:

The City of Gary is dedicated to fostering a safe, thriving, and inclusive community. Under the leadership of Mayor Eddie D. Melton, the city is focused on economic revitalization, robust public services, and improving the quality of life for all residents.

Contact:
Steve Segura, Chief Communications Officer
City of Gary
stsegura@gary.gov

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