Sep. 25—Undoubtedly one of the more interesting events to come out of 2020 was Logansport Fire Department's ability to ratify its first union contract with the City of Logansport.

For the first time since Logansport Fire Fighters Local 470 came into existence in 1936, the union was able to sign a pact with the city. On Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2020, Mayor Chris Martin signed the agreement with Fire Chief Rick Bair and several firefighters following the weekly Board of Works meeting, where the three-member panel unanimously approved the agreement.

The four-year contract focuses on manpower and working conditions.

The two entities worked together, organizing and drafting an agreement that suited both the union and the city.

"This has been a good-faith initiative," said Bair. "We're the only public entity unionized. I've been with the department for 22 years, and we've been fighting for a contract the entire time I've been here."

Currently, there are 34 firefighters, including the chief, who serve the community.

"When I see what is happening in this country, I know we need to support our firefighters and police," said retired Logansport Savings Bank employee Chuck Newton, who now resides in Lafayette.

Offering his support during the September meeting, Newton went on to say firefighters and law enforcement officers provide the safety, security and enforcement of the constitutional rights citizens are guaranteed.

"I support you and what you do," Newton said.

Logansport City Councilman at large Jonathan Nelms echoed that sentiment. Going before the board and addressing the firefighters in the City Council Chambers, he said, "I support all you do," which brought about rousing applause from a nearly packed room.

"We want to be partners with LFD. We want to strengthen this partnership, increase morale, and let the firefighters know: We got your back," said the mayor, adding that the city's firefighters and police officers "are underpaid based upon surrounding counties. This (contract) is one more thing as a board we can do to support you."

And in his role as Logansport Police chief, Travis Yike encourages strong support among co-workers. Part of that happens through recognition of successes.

In this last year, Yike has presented his department with several awards. But during a meeting in January, Yike said his department chose to single out five officers who went above and beyond this past year.

Det. Jason Rozzi, Patrolman Joseph Schlosser and Patrolman Quinn McGovern were presented with the Officers of the Year award for their courageous efforts to remove a resident at Cass Plaza Apartments during a fire. According to Yike, the officers were some of the first responders on scene, and their efforts ensured everyone made it to safety without injury.

Others honored included Lt. Adam Morrow and Patrolman Alec Vantuinen. They received the Chief's Award.

Morrow, as well as Patrolman Tanner Prentice, received the Hitting It Hard Honor for going above and beyond the call of duty. They worked extra hours rendering aid to people who were stranded and offering support to residents who required assistance.

Yike also recognized Corp. DJ Sommers with his 15 years of service award.

Reach Kristi Hileman at kristi.hileman@pharostribune.com or 574-732-5150