City Council Prioritizes Step Increases for Police Fire and Public Works Employees

During the Glenn Heights City Council meeting on September 2, 2025, council members engaged in a critical discussion regarding the city’s budget priorities, particularly focusing on employee compensation and essential services. The council is considering a budget of approximately $361,000, with a strong emphasis on providing step increases for city employees, including police, fire, and public works personnel.

Council member Bruton highlighted the importance of rewarding the current workforce, stating that they are the backbone of the city and deserve recognition for their contributions. He expressed concern that proposals excluding employee step increases would undermine the morale and retention of essential staff. Bruton urged the council to find ways to allocate funds to meet these critical needs rather than making cuts that could negatively impact city services.

The discussion also touched on the necessity of maintaining competitive salaries for police and fire departments to prevent losing personnel to neighboring municipalities offering better pay and benefits. Council members emphasized the urgency of addressing compensation disparities, particularly for firefighters and police officers who are currently working demanding schedules.

Additionally, the council considered potential budget adjustments, including the possibility of trimming expenses from other areas to fund the proposed increases. The need for ongoing training and compliance for police officers was also raised, with a suggestion to prioritize funding for Lexipol software, which supports police training and operational compliance.

As the council deliberates on these budgetary matters, the focus remains on ensuring that city employees are adequately compensated while maintaining essential services for the community. The outcome of these discussions will significantly impact the city’s workforce and its ability to attract and retain skilled personnel in the future.