Championing Our Heroes: Fair Pay for First Responders

Did you know it costs about $24,000 to train each RFD recruit? Despite this investment, we're losing 35% of our firefighters within five years due to insufficient benefits. Training an RPD recruit costs just as This not only impacts our community's safety but also wastes taxpayer money.

Our city’s first responders—the brave men and women who rush toward danger—are our unsung heroes. Their sacrifices protect us, yet their struggles often go unnoticed. After engaging with firefighters and police officers, it’s clear that we must address their challenges head-on.

The RPD/RFD Pay Scale Dilemma: Raleigh’s shift to a “step program” pay scale received mixed reviews from the RFD. While the concept is commendable, the implementation fell short. The current system, which allows unequal pay, "leapfrogging", pay ceilings, etc. has left many first responders at a disadvantage. My plan to change to a pay scale based on time grade (TIG) & time in service (TIS). This means that every RP/FD employee will be paid for how long they have served and on their rank,/grade instead of their last negotiated pay.

Affordability and Housing Struggles: Over 97% of RPD and RFD personnel cannot afford to live within the city limits. Escalating housing costs in Wake County, coupled with historically low pay, have created an untenable situation. A recent study confirms that Raleigh’s first responders rank some of the worst paid in NC and in the USA.

My Commitment to Change: To support our first responders, I propose the following initiatives:

1. Pay Scale Reform: Let’s adopt a pay structure that mirrors the military’s Time in Service & Time in Grade model. I’ve discussed this with our firefighters, and they wholeheartedly endorse the idea.
2. Military Leave and Mental Health Days: Issue 120 hours of annual military leave for Reserve and Guard members. Additionally, mandate mental health days to ensure well-being of RPD & RFD members.
3. Cost of Living Adjustment: I urge our city manager to implement a cost-of-living adjustment that aligns with the national average.
4. Housing Solutions: Let’s explore building dormitories near fire and police stations to ease housing challenges for new responders.
5. Add separation allowance for RFD: The RPD already receives a separation allowance which provides retirement benefits until age 62 for those serving 30 years. It is a vital step in recognizing the sacrifices our firefighters make. They face higher rates of cancer and other health risks, yet they serve with a selfless dedication. I also request that we extend the age for benefits to 65 to help get the RPD & RFD to retirement.

Together, we can honor our heroes by ensuring fair compensation, support, and a brighter future for Raleigh’s Bravest & Finest. 🚒👮‍♂️💙