City Council Backs Funding for Three Labor Agreements

Page updated on January 13, 2026 at 8:26 PM
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Alexandria, Va. — The Alexandria City Council voted tonight to commit funding for collective bargaining agreements with three employee groups: 

  • uniformed Fire and EMS employees represented by the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) Local 2141
  • sworn Police officers, represented by the Southern States Police Benevolent Association (SSPBA),
  • and Administrative and Technical employees, represented by the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME).  

The agreements address wages, benefits, work hours, and other conditions of employment for the period of July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2029. 

“Through good-faith negotiations, our unions and City staff have worked together to reach competitive agreements that represent significant new investment in the City’s public safety and general government workforce,” said City of Alexandria Mayor Alyia Gaskins. “These agreements demonstrate our commitment to respecting and investing in our workforce and ensure we continue delivering quality services to our residents. I want to thank our union partners and City staff for their collaboration, professionalism, and shared commitment to ensuring that Alexandria remains a competitive and supportive employer.”  

Key Highlights of the Agreements 

With the City Council’s vote to commit funding, all three agreements are set to take effect on July 1, 2026, ensuring competitive compensation, predictable personnel costs, and continued high-quality public services for the residents of Alexandria. 

Fire and EMS Employees (IAFF Local 2141) 

  • Measured, phased wage increases of 1% in FY27 and FY28.
  • Annual merit-based step increases and longevity bonuses to recognize performance and years of service.
  • Reduction in the workweek from 49 hours to 46 hours by FY29 for fire suppression staff.
  • Continued access to structured leave programs, including annual, sick, compensatory, and paid parental leave.

“Today is a tremendous day for Alexandria Firefighters, Inc., IAFF Local 2141, and for the entire Alexandria community. Our agreement on a second collective bargaining contract reflects a shared belief that when firefighters, paramedics, and fire marshals are supported, the whole city benefits,” said Josh Turner, President, Alexandria Firefighters, Inc. IAFF Local 2141. “By continuing to reduce hours and move closer to a more equitable work week, we’re strengthening the well‑being of the people who show up for our neighbors every single day. This agreement is about building a healthier, safer, and more resilient Alexandria together. I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished and excited for what it means for the community we serve.”  

Sworn Police Officers (SSPBA) 

  • Structured three-rank pay scale (Police Officer, Sergeant, Lieutenant) with step increases tied to years of service.
  • Significant initial pay increases in FY27 (17% for officers, 21% for sergeants, 15% for lieutenants at the first step), with additional 2% increases in FY28 and FY29.
  • Longevity bonuses and specialty pay for critical skills and assignments.
  • Regular market reviews ensure pay parity and competitiveness within the region.
  • Support for predictable career earnings, recruitment, and retention while preserving operational flexibility.

“The Alexandria Chapter of the Southern States Police Benevolent Association is proud of the work that we accomplished working with the City of Alexandria in this agreement,” said Damon Minnix, SSPBA Chapter President. “The pay adjustments are an important step forward for the agency, which will make APD competitive for quality officers in the Northern Virginia and DC Metro Area.” 

Administrative and Technical Employees (AFSCME) 

  • First collective bargaining agreement for the unit, providing structured wage growth: 3% in FY27, 2.75% in FY28, and 1.5% in FY29.
  • Merit increases tied to performance evaluations and longevity bonuses for top-step employees.
  • Clear and consistent policies for overtime, standby, call-back, and holiday pay.
  • Support for workforce stability, fair compensation, and career growth across the unit.

“Signing this contract for Administrative and Technical employees is a proud accomplishment for AFSCME District Council 20. We had an amazing bargaining team consisting of members from Local 3001 and this very passionate bargaining unit,” said Wayne L. Enoch, AFSCME Executive Director. “We were able to incorporate a variety of concerns that impact the working conditions and compensation for this unit of our members. This first contract marks the start of another relationship between our great union and the Alexandria City Government. It will improve the services that residents receive because it gives a voice to the workers that render them.”