The Encinitas City Council has approved a new four-year contract with the Encinitas Firefighter's Association, marking a significant move towards improving wages and stability for local firefighters. The agreement, unanimously voted upon by the council, will see a 5% increase in base pay starting January 1, 2026, and subsequent raises in the following years — 4.5% in 2027 and 4% in both 2028 and 2029. According to The San Diego Union-Tribune, the city anticipates an additional cost of $3.094 million over the duration of the contract. In the current fiscal year ending July 1, an estimated $750,000 has been earmarked to accommodate the revisions.
The contract follows an earlier report by The Coast News about the Encinitas Fire Department's plan to withdraw from a cooperative fire management services agreement with Solana Beach and Del Mar's departments. They are seeking to establish itself as an independent fire agency, having negotiated the terms that culminate in the recent wage enhancements. Judy von Kalinowski, Encinitas' human resources director, expressed her satisfaction with the smooth negotiation process, remarking it "couldn't have been more of a pleasure."
Encinitas City Manager Jennifer Campbell lauded the deal for balancing the value given to employees with fiscal responsibility. In discussions leading up to the agreement, the importance of open communication and a respectful dialogue between the city officials and the firefighters was emphasized. Furthermore, Encinitas plans to augment the service's funding, as indicated by Councilmember Jim O'Hara, describing the contract as a "first step." Furthermore, Mayor Bruce Ehlers has signalled that projects aimed at fire station improvements are forthcoming, highlighting the city's commitment to its fire services infrastructure.
As part of the new contract, firefighters will benefit from additional incentive pay based on educational achievements. For example, a monthly stipend for acquiring an associate degree will jump from $60 to $550, and those who also obtain fire officer certification will see their monthly incentive increase from $100 to $775. These incentives are designed to promote continued professional development among the fire service personnel. Notably, under the previous contract that expires on December 31, the firefighters had been receiving a 3% raise annually for the last four years, according to The San Diego Union-Tribune.
Council members and the firefighters' representatives have expressed mutual appreciation for the value and quality of the fire services provided to Encinitas residents. Councilmember Marco San Antonio joked that the firefighters "drove a hard bargain" but also acknowledged the high-quality service they provide. Captain Donald Butz of the Encinitas Fire Department and a member of the EFFA, shared with The Coast News that the contract represents a commitment to the firefighters and an investment in the community's public safety. This sentiment echoes through the council's consensus, as they recognize the essential role that the fire service plays and its foundational place in a safe and secure community.
