Oakland and Firefighters Local 55 Reach Tentative Five-Year Deal With 16% Raises

OAKLAND, Calif. — October 27, 2026. Oakland and the International Association of Firefighters Local 55 have reached a tentative five-year agreement through mediation. The city’s announcement describes 16% in wage increases over five years and a limited pension contribution change intended to address rising costs.

Why this matters to residents

The city says employee pension and healthcare costs have been rising roughly 6% per year even without additional wage changes. Negotiations are still continuing with four other bargaining groups. Fire protection staffing and labor spending are important parts of the city’s fiscal planning.

What has not been confirmed

The agreement is not final: union members are voting on it, and a subsequent City Council vote is required. The percentage is an aggregate term over five years, not a 16% raise in a single pay period.

Official source: https://www.oaklandca.gov/News-Releases/Oakland-Reaches-Tentative-5-Year-Agreement-with-Firefighters-Local-55.

Published October 27, 2026. California58 has distinguished the original agency announcement date from this report’s publication date.

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