Council approves immediate $18 hourly rate for volunteer firefighters after months-long budget debate

The Paynesville City Council approved an immediate increase in firefighter pay to $18 an hour after extended debate over a proposed phased raise.

Councilors spent more than an hour weighing budget constraints against recruitment and retention concerns. Budget and finance had recommended a three-year schedule (16, then 18, then 20 dollars per hour) to limit the immediate budget impact. Several council members argued for moving directly to $20, saying that $18 may not be competitive for younger recruits; others said a stepped approach helped this year’s budget.

A motion to adopt the three-year schedule was made and seconded, and later a motion to set pay immediately to $20 failed to gain a second. Councilor Neil moved to amend the motion to set the new rate at $18 immediately; the amendment passed on a recorded voice vote (four in favor, one opposed on the amendment) and the final amended motion to raise wages to $18/hour carried unanimously on the final vote.

Supporters cited comparisons to neighboring communities and the need to reduce economic barriers for volunteers who lose pay when responding to calls. Opponents and cautioning members emphasized the short-term budget pressure and that the budget had been discussed with contracting townships under a different payment schedule.

The council characterized the decision as balancing fairness to the department and fiscal responsibility; members said they intend to revisit wages in next year’s budget process. The motion to raise firefighter wages was carried as stated by the council.

The council proceeded to other agenda items after the vote; no additional implementation detail (effective date beyond “immediate” or specific contract amendments) was specified in the meeting record.