President’s Report: January 7, 2026

Happy New Year,

We begin with a moment of silence for EMT Emilio Martinez, Lt. James McGee, and all those we lost in 2025.

Mayor
We have a newly elected Mayor, Zohran Mamdani, who is fully aware of our current contract and wage issues. We anticipate meeting with him in the coming weeks to work toward a resolution on these matters.

Mayoral Transition Team
Local 2507 played a critical role on the Public Safety Committee by advocating for pay equity. I strongly recommended that the Department be led by someone from EMS, and I am proud that our voice was heard. I am hopeful that this new administration will finally help us reach the finish line on pay equity.

Commissioner
We want to acknowledge a historic milestone: for the first time in FDNY history, we have a Commissioner who rose through the ranks of FDNY EMS. We look forward to working with Commissioner Lillian Bonsignore to secure the attention and resources EMS requires. Our primary objective remains achieving wage equity and better working conditions. Congratulations to Commissioner Bonsignore.

Chief of EMS Paul Miano
Our local values the long-standing relationship we share with Chief Miano. His background as a former union delegate provides him with a deep understanding of the needs of our members. We appreciate his hands-on leadership style and his support regarding our quest for wage equity. We wish him continued success as he champions our workforce.

City Hall Testimony
On November 13, Local 2507 testified regarding the creation of a standalone EMS, our wages, and our working conditions. I want to specifically thank EMT Sharnice Johnson for her courage in testifying alongside me while she was experiencing homelessness. Her story highlighted the immense difficulty of surviving on current EMS wages.

We know many of our members face similar housing challenges. If you are struggling, please reach out. We have resources available and are here to assist you confidentially.

Additionally, a news outlet is interested in speaking with members currently facing these challenges to expose our low pay scales. If you are willing to share your story, please respond to this email at Oren.Barzilay@local2507.com.

Contract Update
We anticipate our next bargaining date to be February 13 or 16. We will provide updates as they become available.

FLSA
All active members should have received their full payments. If you have not received your check, please call 202-833-8855 and mention the Budder case.

Dues Increase
In accordance with the AFSCME constitution, dues will increase by 70 cents effective January 1, 2026.

Stay tuned for further updates.

In Solidarity,

Oren Barzilay
President
FDNY EMS Local 2507

150-39 14th Ave
Whitestone NY 11357
Second Floor
Office:7183710310
Fax: 7183710318