After working out a deal with the Carpentersville firefighters union, village officials agreed to rescind the layoffs of two full-time firefighters. In turn, the Carpentersville Professional Firefighters Union, IAFF Local 4790, is dropping all pending grievances amid ongoing contract negotiations, Union President Rick Nieves said. "This was a goodwill gesture on the village's part to move the process forward in a positive fashion," Village Manager J. Mark Rooney said. "It was graciously reciprocated by the union."
Layoff notices for the two firefighters went into effect April 22, after which union representatives voiced their intent to take the issue to an arbitrator. Not more than two weeks later, the two parties were able come to an understanding "without a costly legal battle," Nieves said.
The firefighters will return to work Friday and Saturday, Rooney said. Collective bargaining negotiations continue Thursday.