Friday Update: RETURN TO WORK 

As many of you know, over the past several weeks, your Local 1014 Executive Board has been aggressively pursuing a change in staffing for the Return to Work Division (RTW) following the unilateral appointment of a RTW Supervisor to this critically important position within the Department. This appointment, made by the Chief, was directly impacting the health and safety of our members and preventing our members from returning to work under safe conditions. We pursued a Grievance General In Character on behalf of all Local 1014 members.  

After lengthy discussions and meeting with the Fire Chief and the Board of Supervisors we have reached an agreement on changes to the RTW office as well as a plan to ensure RTW operates in an effective manner. 

As of this week, we are pleased to announce that Local 1014 has made your voices heard—the RTW Division will now be staffed by Battalion Chief Gerald “Gigi” Gonzalez. This change along with a direct report every 30 days to the Fire Chief and Union President, will positively impact our members and allow for them to receive the effective treatment they need and deserve in order to return to work. 

While we are pleased with the Chief’s decision to reappoint staff, your Executive Board will continue to fight for increased protection for our members and uphold your right to seek effective non-discriminatory treatment for on-the-job injuries. We look forward to working collaboratively with the Department to improve the RTW system and create a collaborative system that focused on taking care of the men and women of the Los Angeles County Fire Department. 

We will keep you informed of the work in progress at Return to Work.  

In Solidarity,