The first meetings to organize the firefighters of the Sun City Fire Department were held on June 17 and 18, 1993. There was no single motivating factor driving those initial discussions; rather, a wide range of concerns and perspectives were present. Topics ranged from simple expressions of solidarity, such as displaying a union sticker, to pay and benefit issues—including the absence of a cost-of-living adjustment that year and the lack of a PSPRS pension. Other concerns included uncertainty about the possible return of Rural/Metro, apprehension that unionization could be harmful, and, for some, satisfaction with the status quo.

At that time, there was no clear direction on whether the firefighters would affiliate with an existing local, form an independent organization, or establish a non-union employee association. There was also uncertainty about how to communicate these efforts to the Fire Board, the Fire Chief, and the public. Even the organization’s name, leadership structure, and fundamental understanding of what a union represented were unknown. Those meetings concluded with two decisive actions: the election of the first representatives and the adoption of a name—the Sun City Fire Fighters Association.

The motivation behind initiating the organizing meetings stemmed from growing discussions about unionization within the department. Several individuals advocating most strongly for union representation had already made contact with an established local, making it clear that some form of organization was inevitable. While unionization was not viewed as inherently harmful, it was recognized that poor leadership or missteps at a critical moment could negatively impact the department. The primary objective was to ensure the process was handled thoughtfully, deliberately, and correctly.

Over the following decade, the organization experienced significant growth and development. Many of the early uncertainties were resolved, and the association expanded from 38 members to more than 250, from a single chapter to five. It evolved from being largely unknown within the state organization to earning recognition as the “Westside Warriors.” Political engagement grew from nonexistent to meaningful participation in elections and the establishment of productive relationships with elected officials and administrative leadership across every district and city served.

These efforts resulted in tangible benefits for members, including improved pay, enhanced benefits, stronger pension protections, and safer working conditions. Notable achievements included the inclusion of El Mirage into the union, where firefighter pay increased dramatically; pay increases of more than 50 percent for Sun City firefighters; the passage of SB 1355, allowing Sun City and later Sun City West to enter PSPRS and purchase prior service time; the adoption of Meet and Confer in El Mirage and Surprise; and the successful navigation of annexation and growth issues at Daisy Mountain.

Throughout this period, the organization remained committed to ensuring fair and respectful treatment of all members, particularly in disciplinary matters and daily workplace concerns—many of which were resolved without fanfare but had lasting impact. None of these accomplishments were the result of a single individual’s efforts; they were made possible through the collective support, participation, and unity of the membership. Above all, the process was conducted with care and integrity—and it was done right.

(Submitted to all members of the local on November 14, 2003.)