San Jose, Police & Fire Unions Reach Pension Reform Deal

While the agreement only covers retirement benefits for police and firefighters, it is expected to pave the way for settlements with other unions

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By Ramona Giwargis

Mercury News

SAN JOSE -- After more than three years of bitter fighting, city and public safety union leaders reached a tentative deal that would end litigation over the Measure B pension reforms voters overwhelmingly approved in 2012.

The proposed deal came after round-the-clock talks during the City Council’s summer break on the day union leaders had threatened to walk out if they couldn’t reach a settlement.

“Today’s agreement will be a catalyst for the rebuilding of our public safety services, to restore San Jose’s police and fire departments,” said Mayor Sam Liccardo, who’d championed the pension reforms as a councilman and candidate. “It’s also a moment to celebrate our collective commitment to move forward beyond the contentiousness of the past.”

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