Long Beach announces proposed labor agreements with firefighters and lifeguards

The City of Long Beach has announced tentative new labor deals with the local lifeguards and firefighters unions, securing salary bumps for both workforces as well as a full-time paramedic rescue. 

The proposed three-year labor agreements with the Long Beach Lifeguards Association (LGA) and the Long Beach Firefighters Association (FFA) will be publicly considered during the Long Beach City Council meeting on Nov. 11. The LGA represents 211 employees while the FFA’s membership is comprised of 411 employees.

Lifeguard Agreement

The LGA’s tentative agreement, ratified by members on Oct. 30, addresses wages and strengthens workforce recruitment and retention efforts. It includes the following terms:

• Three-year contract from Oct. 1, 2025 to Sept. 30, 2028.
• General salary increases of 2% in the first year, 2% in the second year and 3% in the third year.
• Salary adjustments for the classifications of Marine Safety Battalion Chief, Marine Safety Officer and Marine Safety Rescue Boat Captain.
• New education pay for lifeguard non-careers.

“We are pleased to have reached an agreement with the City that supports our lifeguards and ensures our ability to continue providing vital water safety services for the residents and visitors of Long Beach,” said LGA President Devon Beebe in a public statement.

Beginning in June, representatives from the City and LGA held six negotiation meetings before agreeing to terms. The total estimated cost for the LGA’s three-year agreement is $1.62 million.

“Long Beach is home to over six miles of beautiful public beaches and waterways, and our lifeguards are vital to keeping them safe,” said Mayor Rex Richardson in a public statement. “This agreement commits to our lifeguards’ futures and ensures they are supported so they can continue to protect our community and make our beaches a welcoming place for residents and visitors alike.”

Firefighter’s Agreement

The FFA’s tentative agreement, ratified by members on Oct. 25, ensures greater compensation and bolsters the Fire Department’s resources. It includes the following terms:

• Three-year contract from Oct. 1, 2025 to Sept. 30, 2028.
• General salary increases of 2% in the first year, 3% in the second year and 4% in the third year.
• Addition of one full-time paramedic rescue.
• Increase to eligible employees for Firefighter II skill pay.
• FFA active members will make mandatory contributions to their Retired Health Savings Account beginning Oct. 3, 2026.

“This agreement marks a new era of partnership between the City and our members, built on accountability, collaboration and a shared commitment to public safety,” said Lamont Nguyen, FFA President in a public statement. “It secures the staffing, equipment and resources our firefighters need to protect a growing Long Beach while ensuring the City continues to invest in its people. Together, we’ve set a new standard that moves beyond ‘doing more with less’ toward a stronger, safer and more resilient community.”

City and FFA representatives met seven times, starting in May, before settling on this agreement. The total estimated cost for the FFA’s three-year agreement is $18.8 million for the General Fund Group and $19 million for All Funds.

“This agreement reflects a balanced and forward-thinking approach that recognizes the critical and evolving role of our sworn Fire Department personnel,” said City Manager Tom Modica in a public statement. “By investing in the people who serve, we also invest in the safety, resilience and quality of life of everyone in Long Beach. I want to thank the FFA for their close partnership in reaching this agreement.”