Cheyenne Firefighters and City Clash Over Wage Talks

Mayor rejects union's proposal to table pay dispute, insists it must be resolved first.

Mar. 18, 2026 at 1:19am

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The ongoing wage dispute between the Cheyenne firefighters union and the city government has hit another impasse, with Mayor Patrick Collins rejecting the union's proposal to table the pay discussion and focus on other contract terms. Collins insists that resolving the salary issue is the city's top priority before any other negotiations can move forward.

Why it matters

The standoff over firefighter wages in Cheyenne highlights the challenges many municipalities face in balancing budgets and compensating public safety workers. The dispute also raises questions about how to fairly compare compensation across different cities and departments.

The details

During the latest special meeting, Mayor Collins presented his own analysis of regional firefighter pay, arguing that when factoring in Cheyenne's lower cost of living, the city's firefighters are the highest paid in the state. However, the union disputed the mayor's calculations, saying they need more time to review the data. The two sides remain at an impasse, unable to make progress on the contract until the wage issue is resolved.

  • The next round of collective bargaining between the Cheyenne City Council and the firefighters union is set for Monday, March 24, 2026, immediately after the regular 6 p.m. City Council meeting.
  • The negotiations are expected to begin around 7 p.m. or 7:30 p.m. on March 24, 2026.

The players

Patrick Collins

The mayor of Cheyenne, Wyoming, who is leading the city's negotiations with the firefighters union.

Chris Thoms

The president of the International Association of Fire Fighters Local 279, representing Cheyenne firefighters.

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What they’re saying

“We came here to negotiate and we'd like to refocus this process on moving the contract forward in a productive manner.”

— Chris Thoms, Union President

“I don't know how we can compare those where these other people don't have those acting pays. A large percentage, I think, of our pay comes from these specialty pays.”

— Patrick Collins, Mayor

What’s next

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The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.