Conroe Firefighters Seek Voter Support in Petition Drive to Put Collective Bargaining on the Ballot

CONROE, TX -- Conroe firefighters are proud to deliver excellent service, be good stewards of city resources and give back to the community. Now, they need the help of local voters.

Lloyd Sandefer, president of the Conroe Professional Fire Fighters Association, said firefighters and supporters are seeking voter signatures on a petition to put collective bargaining for the Conroe Fire Department on the ballot in May 2026. Many Texas cities use collective bargaining to negotiate firefighter and police officer working conditions and pay.

Sandefer said, “Dozens of Texas cities, large and small, have used collective bargaining for decades. It’s part of Texas state law – supported by Republicans, Democrats and Independents. It’s a fair process for both the city and our firefighters. It’s important to know that collective bargaining will not raise taxes.”

Leading Texas cities use collective bargaining to help strengthen their fire departments, Sandefer said. The process helps put in place adequate staffing levels, which directly impacts public safety and reduces the risk of injury or death during emergency responses. Collective bargaining agreements also help establish clear, consistent standards for training, equipment, and workplace safety, ensuring that fire departments meet professional benchmarks.

“This process fosters collaboration between firefighters and management, creating a structured way to resolve disputes and maintain labor peace,” Sandefer said. “Ultimately, collective bargaining strengthens the fire service by protecting those who protect the public, ensuring both firefighter well-being and community safety.”
Conroe firefighters and supporters will be seeking petition signatures throughout the community in the weeks to come.

“We appreciate the support of the community and this opportunity to further strengthen our fire department,” Sandefer said.