Contract negotiations between St. Johns County and the union representing its firefighters have reached an impasse over proposed changes to work schedules, pay and staffing levels.
The St. Johns County Professional Firefighters and Paramedics, IAFF Local 3865, declared the deadlock during negotiations with the county last month.
Under Florida law, the move triggers the appointment of a Special Magistrate who will review unresolved proposals and issue a non-binding recommendation to the St. Johns County Board of County Commissioners.
At the center of the dispute is the union’s proposal to shift firefighters from their current one-day-on, two-days-off schedule to a one-day-on, three-days-off rotation.
Union leaders argue the change would reduce fatigue amid increased workload and improve firefighter safety and mental health.
To accommodate the additional day off, the union is seeking a 33 percent increase in hourly pay to offset fewer days worked and an approximately 33 percent expansion of the workforce — at least 125 additional firefighters over two years.
County officials have countered with an offer of an 18 to 20 percent pay increase over three years but have not agreed to the proposed schedule or staffing increases.
They say they must weigh firefighter well-being against service demands and long-term financial sustainability in one of Florida’s fastest-growing counties.
County Administrator Joy Andrews emphasized the need for balance in a statement, saying, “We remain committed to investing in Fire Rescue in ways that deliver improvements while maintaining fiscal responsibility.”
Fire Chief Sean McGee also cautioned that rapid expansion could compromise training standards and operational readiness.
Fire Rescue services continue uninterrupted as the impasse process moves forward.
Final decisions will be made by county commissioners after the Special Magistrate’s recommendation and a public hearing.
