A lawsuit has been filed and is seeking class action status against the city for allegedly violating an agreement to provide police officer and firefighter retirees with health benefits. The suit claims the city of Battle Creek changed its policy in July 2007 when the city commission agreed to require retired firefighters to pay a portion of their health insurance costs while reducing benefits. It alleges retirees are entitled to lifetime health care coverage under terms of several collective bargaining agreements.
The suit was filed in Calhoun County Circuit Court and claims the decision by the commission violates those contracts with the Battle Creek Police Officers Association and the Battle Firefighters Association.
