Dear Maryville City Council Members,

We, the undersigned residents and supporters of the City of Maryville, respectfully petition the City Council to implement the Tennessee 25/55 Public Safety Bridge Retirement program for the dedicated members of the Maryville Police and Fire Departments. This initiative, in alignment with state policy, will provide critical benefits to our public safety personnel while ensuring the continued safety and well-being of our community. We urge you to consider the following compelling reasons for its implementation:

1. Support for Our Public Safety Heroes: The members of the Maryville Police and Fire Departments are our local heroes, putting their lives on the line every day to protect and serve our community. Implementing the 25/55 Public Safety Bridge Retirement program demonstrates our appreciation for their selfless dedication and sacrifices.

2. Recognition of Service: Many of our police officers and firefighters dedicate decades of their lives to public service, facing inherent risks and challenges along the way. A 25/55 retirement plan recognizes their long years of service and provides them with the opportunity to retire with dignity and financial security.

3. Recruitment and Retention: Attracting and retaining qualified public safety personnel is essential for maintaining effective emergency response services in our city. Offering the 25/55 retirement option serves as a powerful incentive for experienced professionals to join the Maryville Police and Fire Departments and remain committed to serving our community for the long term.

4. Cost-Effectiveness and Succession Planning: Implementing the 25/55 retirement program can result in long-term cost savings for the city by managing personnel costs effectively and facilitating succession planning within the police and fire departments. This program allows for the smooth transition of leadership roles while retaining valuable institutional knowledge and experience.

5. Enhanced Community Safety: A well-supported and experienced public safety workforce is vital for ensuring the safety and security of our community. The 25/55 retirement program enables our police and fire departments to maintain a robust workforce, enhancing our city's capacity to respond to emergencies and protect the lives and property of our residents.

6. Alignment with State Policy: The Tennessee 25/55 Public Safety Bridge Retirement program provides a proven framework for supporting public safety personnel across the state. By implementing this program, Maryville can align with state policy initiatives and demonstrate its commitment to the well-being of its public safety workforce.

In conclusion, we urge the Maryville City Council to prioritize the implementation of the Tennessee 25/55 Public Safety Bridge Retirement program for the City of Maryville Police and Fire Departments. This initiative not only supports our dedicated public safety personnel but also contributes to the safety, security, and prosperity of our
community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.