From KRNV TV, February 5

RENO, NV – he firefighters union has come forward with a concession to help the City of Reno as it faces declining revenues. The union has offered to take a nine month reduction in salary and benefits.

"We are very sensitive to the economic times and we have been hoping to work collaboratively to find responsible solutions," president of the local chapter of the IAFF Brad Jensen said.

The City of Reno asked the union to take a cut in salary benefits for a six month period of time, saying it was the only alternative to layoffs.

Jenson said the firefighters choose to take the cut for nine months, rather than the six that city requested, because he does not see the economic situation improving significantly in six months time.

The union has offered to take a 2.1% cut in benefits and change staffing rules to save the city $1.4 million in overtime costs and vacation time. The firefighters have also offered to extend their contract for one year with no increases in salary or benefits.

Jenson says this plan allows the fire department to continue its focus on public safety.

"It keeps response times where they are supposed to be and keeps rigs filled," Jenson said. "We didn't want to give something to the city that would save (overtime), but compromise public safety. This (plan) is the best of both worlds, driving down overtime costs by providing our own relief and keeping seats filled."

The Reno city manager will decide whether to accept the offer on Friday