Excerpts from wgntv.com:

The Country Club Hills Fire Department says stalled contract negotiations with the city are putting both firefighters and residents in danger.

Tuesday night, members of the Country Club Hills Firefighters Union said the department is understaffed, underpaid, and burning out. Union attorney Jerry Marzullo, who also works as a firefighter in Berwyn, said the department is operating with dangerously low staffing levels.

In addition to staffing shortages, union members say wages in Country Club Hills are thousands of dollars lower than in similar-sized cities, leading firefighters to leave for better-paying jobs elsewhere. Some newer hires reportedly lack full paramedic qualifications, and a recent change in healthcare providers could cost firefighters an additional $5,000.

Union members say they’re hopeful a deal can be reached soon, with the help of a third-party.

Some union members plan to address city leaders at Monday’s council meeting, urging action on their delayed contract.

thanks Dan