FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WOWO): Before a packed room with dozens of residents, Fort Wayne City Council voted 6-2, with one abstention to introduce three separate ordinances that would end collective bargaining for city workers.

One bill includes negotiation for police and firefighters.

Councilmen Glynn Hines (6th District) and Geoff Paddock (5th District) voted against the measure.

Fellow Council member, John Shoaff opposes the plan, but voted to officially advance those ordinances. He said it was an important discussion to entertain.

Several hundred, mostly union workers, flooded the council chambers and about dozen people passionately spoke against the ordinance. Often showing vocal support for maintaining the current system of collective bargaining.

Supporters say it will make the contract negotiation process more cost-effective and fiscally responsible.

Council will formally discuss the ordinances next week. A vote could come as early as May 27th.