Independence Firefighters Union Negotiations Stall

Firefighters fear contract impasse could lead to attrition as other departments offer higher pay

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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Contract negotiations between the city of Independence, Missouri and the local firefighters union, IAFF Local 781, have been ongoing for over a year but have yet to reach a new deal. The union fears the impasse could lead to firefighters leaving the department for higher-paying jobs at other nearby fire departments.

Why it matters

The ongoing contract dispute highlights the challenges cities face in balancing budgets and providing competitive compensation for public safety workers. The situation in Independence could impact the city's ability to retain experienced firefighters and provide adequate emergency services to residents.

The details

After initial promising conversations, progress on a new contract stalled. The union says firefighters are frustrated by the lack of raises, especially as surrounding departments offer higher starting salaries. The city says it is doing what it can to increase pay within budget constraints, but the union believes it has not been "treated the same" as other city unions.

  • Negotiations began in December 2024 after the union informed the city it planned to negotiate a new contract.
  • The previous collective bargaining agreement expired on December 31, 2025.

The players

IAFF Local 781

The local firefighters union representing 175 members in Independence.

Mike Veit

President of IAFF Local 781.

Zach Graham

A second-year firefighter with the Independence Fire Department who is considering leaving for higher-paying jobs elsewhere.

Zach Walker

The former City Manager of Independence who had initial promising conversations with the union.

Independence Fire Department (IFD)

The fire department serving the city of Independence, Missouri.

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What they’re saying

“My biggest concern is that the firefighters that we have now are going to leave.”

— Mike Veit, President, IAFF Local 781 (KSHB)

“Now, I get to protect the people where my family lives, my friends live, and where I grew up and went to school. It means a lot to me.”

— Zach Graham, Second-year firefighter, Independence Fire Department (KSHB)

“There's just really low morale at the stations in the morning whenever it's now going into March here soon, and we still don't have any raises... It's really impacted the firefighters here who are showing up to do their job, and they're not getting paid a livable wage.”

— Zach Graham, Second-year firefighter, Independence Fire Department (KSHB)

What’s next

The city and union say negotiations are ongoing, and they hope to reach an agreement soon. The union believes they are close to resolving the final sticking point in the contract.

The takeaway

This contract dispute highlights the challenges cities face in providing competitive compensation for public safety workers while balancing budgets. The situation in Independence could impact the city's ability to retain experienced firefighters and provide adequate emergency services if the impasse continues.