Leander's Fire Fighter Association is set to see significant changes in their collective bargaining agreement following a recent government meeting on September 19, 2025. The discussions primarily focused on adjustments to on-call compensation for firefighters, aiming to enhance fairness and clarity in their pay structure.

One of the key proposals discussed was the modification of standby pay for on-call firefighters. Currently, firefighters receive four hours of standby pay per week, which is classified as non-productive time. If called in, they are guaranteed a minimum of two hours of pay. However, concerns were raised about the adequacy of this compensation, especially for assistant chiefs who are also part of the on-call rotation but do not receive the same benefits due to their exempt status.

The meeting highlighted the need for a more equitable system, suggesting that assistant chiefs should receive compensatory time equivalent to the four hours of standby pay that other firefighters receive. This change would recognize the demands placed on these leaders, who must remain available and ready to respond at a moment's notice.

Additionally, the discussions included a proposal to clarify the language around callback pay, ensuring that it aligns with the practices of the police department. This would prevent misunderstandings regarding the minimum pay for callbacks and ensure that firefighters are compensated fairly for their time.

The meeting also touched on the calculation of overtime pay, emphasizing that it should reflect total compensation rather than just the hourly rate. This adjustment aims to provide a more accurate and fair compensation structure for all firefighters.

As these discussions progress, the Leander Fire Fighter Association and city officials are working towards a collective bargaining agreement that not only addresses current compensation issues but also sets a precedent for future negotiations. The outcome of these discussions is expected to have a lasting impact on the morale and operational readiness of the fire department, ultimately benefiting the community they serve.