Asheville Police and Fire Departments propose budget reforms to enhance recruitment and retention

The Asheville City Council meeting on May 27, 2025, focused on critical budget discussions, particularly regarding the Asheville Police Department (APD) and the Asheville Fire Department (AFD). The meeting highlighted the urgent need for a revised pay structure for both departments to address recruitment and retention challenges.

A representative from the Police Benevolent Association (PBA) presented a refined pay plan developed in collaboration with the APD chief. This new plan aims to clarify advancement opportunities for officers, which have been hindered by an ambiguous pay structure. The proposal includes a career ladder program and a defined pay scale, eliminating the need for annual city council approval for funding. This change is expected to enhance the department's ability to retain experienced officers and improve recruitment efforts, addressing the competitive pay issues in the region.

Fire Captain Hayne Griffin advocated for the adoption of a fourth shift for firefighters, emphasizing the need for equitable work hours and improved mental health for the workforce. He urged the council to act decisively to implement this shift, which would require hiring additional firefighters. Griffin expressed concern that delaying this initiative could negatively impact retention and recruitment.

Public comments also included calls for living wages for city employees and better funding for sustainability initiatives. Vicky Meath from Just Economics urged the council to ensure all city workers earn a living wage, while Rachel Cohen from the Sunrise Movement questioned whether the proposed budget aligns with the city’s climate goals.

The council members engaged in discussions about the budget's implications, particularly regarding the proposed firefighter positions and the overall financial strategy. Some members expressed support for increasing firefighter staffing to facilitate the new shift structure, while others raised concerns about potential tax increases and budget cuts.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to further discuss the budget at the next council meeting, where a vote will take place. The outcomes of these discussions will significantly impact the city's ability to support its emergency services and address the community's needs in the wake of recent challenges.