Wednesday, April 29, 2026

Belleville Volunteer Firefighters Ratify New Two-Year Contract

BELLEVILLE, ON—Volunteer firefighters in Belleville, Ontario, ratified a two-year collective agreement, marking a significant step forward amid ongoing pressures facing the city’s fire services.

The 45 volunteer firefighters are represented by Ontario Volunteer Firefighters Association, CLAC Local 920. The union has represented them since 2003.

The new contract comes as Belleville City Council continues to implement elements of the Master Fire Plan first introduced nearly two years ago.

Negotiations concluded with several notable updates. The department will transition from a point-based system to a modern hourly pay model, with volunteers receiving 1.5 to 2 times their hourly rate for the first hour of response. The agreement also introduces a more streamlined training schedule and enhanced vacation pay tied to years of service.

Other improvements include increased DZ license reimbursement, employer-paid medical exams, OMERS pension access, enhanced insurance coverage, and a new cancer screening benefit for long-serving members. Overall, the agreement reflects both evolving operational needs and a renewed commitment to supporting Belleville’s volunteer firefighters.

“Our members continue to show remarkable dedication in serving their community, often balancing demanding schedules and increasing expectations,” says Jennifer Kennedy, CLAC representative. “This agreement modernizes how they are compensated, strengthens supports like training and benefits, and ensures their contributions are recognized as the role of volunteer firefighters continues to evolve.”

Belleville Volunteer Firefighters Ratify New Two-Year Contract

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