STRATFORD, JUNE 20, 2025 — In response to recent public comments from IAFF Local 998 regarding the termination of two Town firefighters, William Hertzog and Scot Sanford, the Town of Stratford, Mayor Laura R. Hoydick and her administration, would like to clarify the circumstances and timeline that led to this difficult but necessary decision.
Mayor Laura R. Hoydick issued the following statement:
“I would like to thank both William Hertzog and Scot Sanford for their years of service with the Town of Stratford Fire Department as firefighters.
Unfortunately, they are medically unable to return to duty after three and two years of Workers’ Compensation leave. Scot was injured in April of 2022 and William in February of 2023. The Town has paid them the difference in their salary and the workers compensation benefit for this time period while waiting for them to be released to return to full duty.
As neither employee can provide a date certain to return to work in the near future after extended medical leaves of absence, the Administration advised the employees and their union that they had the options to retire or terminate their position. They chose not to retire so the Town terminated their employment. They remain eligible to retire and receive a pension and paid retiree medical insurance.
As the Town has paid to cover their shifts at 1 and ½ pay per the union contract, the Town needs to fill these positions.
I wish them well in their future endeavors.”
The Town remains committed to supporting its employees, honoring labor agreements, and maintaining transparency with the community.