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Grand Forks airport firefighters unionize seeking enhanced benefits

Grand Forks airport firefighters unionize seeking enhanced benefits
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AviationPros | AviationPros

Grand Forks International Airport firefighters have voted to unionize, a move primarily motivated by anticipated benefits rather than existing issues. Tim Burrows, ARFF operations specialist, stated that the decision was about "the additional benefits" and "has nothing to do with the politics."

The announcement of the vote was made during an Airport Authority Board meeting on May 15. The benefits that influenced their decision include more training opportunities, enhanced health benefits, access to an international peer group, support for firefighter safety research on issues like cancer and PFAS, and participation in charitable events such as the Fill the Boot campaign and Toys for Tots.

Burrows expressed optimism about future collaborations: "We look forward to having a great relationship with all constituents that we work for and work with."

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Ryan Riesinger, executive director of the airport, noted he learned of the unionization plans earlier in the week. He acknowledged not having received any official documentation from either the local union or the International Association of Firefighters but confirmed discussions had occurred about exceeding Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) training requirements.

Riesinger said that while they meet FAA standards for fire responsibilities, there is interest among staff and union members in going beyond these minimum requirements: "We already do in some cases, but I think they're looking for additional training, or additional areas where they can really go beyond the minimum requirements. We're open to those discussions."

He also mentioned being informed directly that pay, benefits, and scheduling were not concerns driving the decision: "They're happy with all of those things, so I was pleased to hear that," Riesinger added.

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