In a recent move to enhance compensation for their firefighters, the Roswell City Council in Georgia unanimously voted in favor of a significant pay hike.
As reported, the decision increases salaries for full-time fire staff by an average of over 35%.
This adjustment aligns the Roswell Fire Department’s pay scale to be among the top-tier in the region.
This “best-in-class” pay increment supports the fire department’s aim to transition from part-time to full-time staffing within five years.
The updated pay structure is expected to assist the city in drawing, employing, and retaining top-notch personnel.
Mayor Kurt Wilson remarked: “Our first responders approach each day with unwavering dedication, teamwork, and integrity.
“They deserve to be compensated at the highest levels, and we are thrilled to be able to make that happen.”
In order to ascertain the appropriate pay scale, the Roswell Fire Department collaborated with the city’s Human Resources Department.
They carried out a comprehensive study of pay scales in neighboring city departments.
According to the new plan: a non-certified firefighter recruit in Roswell will now begin their career with a starting salary of $52,124.
This is a substantial leap from the earlier starting salary of about $45,000.
For context, a similar position in North Fulton had a starting pay close to $50,000.
This pay raise not only signifies the value and appreciation the city holds for its firefighters but also sets a precedent for other cities to re-evaluate their compensation structures.
As first responders consistently display dedication and integrity, it’s essential for their efforts to be aptly rewarded.
This move by Roswell is a step in the right direction, and it underscores the importance of ensuring that firefighters, as crucial community pillars, receive fair and competitive compensation.
