Agreement between city and firefighters union held up before vote

HOUSTON (KIAH) — There could be more drama surrounding the city of Houston’s new contract with the fire department.

It appears to be in jeopardy as City Comptroller Chris Hollins said he may not certify the deal.

It’s a necessary step before the Houston City Council can take a vote, scheduled for Wednesday.

On Tuesday evening, Mayor John Whitmire sent a letter to Hollins saying that delaying the vote could cost city taxpayers significantly more money.

If the agreement is not adopted by the July 1 deadline, it goes before a judge.

The deal is worth $1.5 billion and includes $650 million in back pay for the seven years the firefighters worked without a contract.