History of Local 67

Introduction

The Columbus Firefighters Union, IAFF Local 67, is one of the most prominent and influential firefighter labor organizations in the State of Ohio. Representing the uniformed members of the Columbus Division of Fire, Local 67 has played a vital role in advancing firefighter safety, labor rights, emergency services, and community engagement for decades. As the largest IAFF affiliate in Ohio, its history is closely intertwined with the growth of Columbus itself and the professionalization of fire and emergency medical services in the region.

Origins and Formation of Local 67

Columbus Firefighters IAFF Local 67 was formally established in 1918, during a period when firefighters across the United States were organizing to secure safer working conditions, fair wages, and collective bargaining rights. The creation of Local 67 aligned Columbus firefighters with the broader mission of the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), which had been founded nationally in 1918 to unify professional firefighters and improve labor standards across the country.  Our union’s formation marked a turning point in labor relations between firefighters and the City of Columbus, establishing a formal structure for negotiation, representation, and professional advocacy.

Growth Alongside the Columbus Division of Fire

The Columbus Division of Fire, founded in 1822, is one of the oldest fire departments in the United States. As Columbus expanded throughout the 20th century, so too did the responsibilities and workload of its firefighters. Local 67 grew in membership and influence as the department transitioned from a primarily fire‑suppression organization to a modern, all‑hazards emergency response agency that includes advanced life support EMS, technical rescue, hazardous materials response, and other various special operations.

At this current time, Local 67 represented more than 1,700 uniformed firefighters, paramedics, officers, and deputy chiefs, making it the largest IAFF local in Ohio. This growth reflected both the increasing population of Columbus and the expanding scope of emergency services required by a major metropolitan area.

Through decades of change—including advances in fire science, EMS expansion, and growing urban demands—Local 67 has remained committed to its core mission: protecting those who protect the citizens of Columbus. Its history reflects not only the evolution of a labor organization, but also the professionalism, resilience, and public service values of Columbus firefighters themselves.

Collective Bargaining and Labor Advocacy

A central function of IAFF Local 67 has always been collective bargaining. The union negotiates labor contracts with the City of Columbus that govern wages, benefits, working hours, safety standards, and disciplinary procedures. These agreements have been critical in improving firefighter health and safety, particularly in areas such as protective equipment, staffing minimums, cancer awareness, and behavioral health resources. These efforts have included pension protection, presumptive cancer coverage, workers’ compensation reforms, and opposition to measures seen as harmful to emergency response readiness.