Marion County Firefighters Win Big: $20,000 Raises and Better Working Conditions in New Contract

Marion County firefighters, paramedics, and EMTs have something big to celebrate.

 

The Marion County Commission unanimously ratified a groundbreaking new contract that gives first responders a $20,000 raise and establishes the most competitive starting salaries for firefighters in all of North Central Florida.

 

The agreement, which passed with an overwhelming 99% approval from union members, represents one of the most significant investments in public safety in Marion County history.

 

What the New Contract Means for First Responders

 

The new contract brings substantial improvements for the 598 active and retired first responders represented by the Professional Fire Fighters of Marion County:

 

Competitive Starting Salaries:

• Dual-certified firefighter/paramedic: $75,022

• Dual-certified firefighter/EMT: $65,067

• Single-certified paramedic: $72,239

• Single-certified EMT: $61,815

 

Better Work-Life Balance:

By September 2029, firefighters will transition to a 42-hour workweek on a 24-hours-on, 72-hours-off schedule. Currently, Marion County firefighters work nearly 900 additional hours per year compared to the average 40-hour employee.

 

Additional Benefits Include:

• Annual 3% cost-of-living adjustments

• 5% longevity increases for every 5 years of service

• 80 hours of paid holiday leave annually

• Holiday hours worked compensated at 1.5 times hourly rate

• Transport stipends for dual-certified personnel

 

Community Leaders Weigh In

 

County Commission Chairman Carl Zalak emphasized the importance of supporting those who protect the community.

 

Our firefighters, paramedics, and EMTs show up every day ready to serve and protect our community, and this agreement reflects our commitment to them, Zalak said. By investing in better pay, benefits, and work-life balance, we are supporting the people who keep Marion County safe and helping ensure we continue to attract and retain the best first responders for years to come.

 

Fire Chief James Banta called the contract an investment in the people who answer the call every day.

 

It is a commitment to building a stronger, healthier, and more resilient workforce, Banta said. The support shown by our county commission and county administration demonstrates their recognition of the critical role our firefighters, paramedics, and EMTs play in safeguarding this community.

 

A Win for Marion County Residents

 

This contract does not just benefit first responders—it strengthens the entire community. Better compensation and working conditions mean:

 

• Improved recruitment and retention of top talent

• Better-rested first responders ready to handle emergencies

• Continued high-quality emergency services for Marion County residents

• Recognition of the challenging and vital work these professionals perform daily

 

Union President Rolin Boyd praised the collaborative spirit that made the agreement possible.

 

This contract is a testament to the foresight, leadership, and willingness to adapt to the ongoing market changes that continue to impact the fire service profession and the individuals who relentlessly serve this community every single day, Boyd said.