Our firefighters are the backbone of our community, tirelessly serving day and night to keep us safe. Despite the risks and sacrifices they make, their compensation does not reflect the tremendous value they provide. To ensure they earn a livable wage that honors their dedication and years of service, we propose raising the millage by 3 points. This would amount to an increase of approximately $120/yr per household or $10/month.

Firefighters endure physically demanding environments, encounter life-threatening situations, and work under immense pressure to save lives and properties. According to the National Fire Protection Association, over 1.1 million firefighters responded to fires in 2019, with more than 40,000 injuries occurring annually during these operations. Despite this, many firefighters struggle to cover basic living expenses on their current salaries.

Increasing millage by 3 points would generate the necessary funds to offer salary raises, allowing firefighters to experience the financial stability they rightfully deserve. For instance, if this proposal is enacted, the increased funds would translate directly into higher paychecks, ensuring that firefighters can adequately support their families and continue to focus on their vital roles within our city.

This is a reasonable adjustment that not only benefits those who provide invaluable services but also strengthens our community as a whole. Ensuring that our firefighters are well-compensated for their hard work will improve morale and foster stronger community ties, creating a safer and more cohesive environment for all residents.

We owe it to our local heroes to step up and make this change. Join us in advocating for fair compensation for our firefighters—sign the petition today to raise the millage by 3 points and give our firefighters the salaries they deserve.