Carmel City Council announces new contracts with police & fire departments

The Carmel City Council approved on Monday new contracts with groups representing officers of the city’s police and fire departments.

Primary changes to the agreements include adjustments to wages and vacation days, with increases based on years of service and position held.

Finkam

Mayor Sue Finkam praised Carmel’s public safety leaders and representatives from the union and fraternal organization for reaching agreements that serve the City’s residents and businesses.

“Our residents appreciate living in Carmel for many reasons and the safety of our community is chief among them,” Mayor Finkam said. “Our council members and I appreciate the importance of attracting and retaining top talent on our police and fire teams and these new agreements help ensure that public safety remains among the many factors making our city a national success story.”

With contract discussions beginning in 2024, Mayor Finkam worked alongside union and fraternal organization leaders on the agreement approved by the council at Monday’s meeting.

Lytle

“This agreement clearly demonstrates the commitment of Mayor Finkam and the Carmel City Council to retain and recruit the best law enforcement professionals,” said Blake Lytle, President of the Carmel Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) Lodge 185. “A high priority for the FOP, the agreement will help to maintain the high standards of our police force and will continue the strong tradition of excellence and service.”

Sutton

“I want to thank the mayor and city council for working with the Carmel Professional Firefighters Union IAFF Local 4444 to negotiate a fair contract that prioritizes public safety,” said Sean Sutton, Carmel Firefighters Union President. “Their commitment ensures we have the staffing and training needed to protect our community effectively. Investing in firefighters and paramedics means investing in the safety and well-being of our visitors and residents. We appreciate their leadership and dedication to keeping our city safe.”

The two-year agreements with both groups are effective Jan. 1, 2025, through Dec. 31, 2026.