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Council pauses vote on fire department leave policy amid staffing concerns, forms working committee
Summary
After a lengthy debate over proposed shift-schedule and sick-leave changes, the council agreed to create a three-member committee to meet with the fire chief and staff before voting on policy changes intended to prevent understaffing.
The Fayette City Council delayed action on proposed fire department personnel-rule changes after several council members said employees were confused and worried the changes would reduce benefits.
Chief Baylor, the city's fire chief, presented revisions that would shift how 24-hour duty cycles and sick-leave documentation operate in the department. "This allows them to make overtime on a routine basis," Chief Baylor said, describing how the proposed 28-day cycle for shift swaps would work and saying the changes are intended to align operations with staffing needs and federal guidance.
Several council members pressed for clarity. One council participant said, "I don't feel comfortable moving forward on this tonight," citing multiple calls from employees who believed they would be required to use vacation before sick leave. Chief Baylor and other staff denied that interpretation and said the policy would not force staff to burn vacation time when they are unexpectedly sick.
After extended discussion about communication and the risk of losing personnel, the council agreed to form a small working group to review the proposal with the chief and affected employees. Chair asked that Councilmen Herring, Wilson and Rogers serve on the committee to "figure out what you want" and to report back before the council votes. The council tabled item 5f (promotions) pending the committee's work.
The committee was formed to ensure departmental staffing during emergency calls while reconciling any differences between the fire department's internal scheduling approach and the city's personnel manual. The council scheduled the committee to meet promptly and requested that the chief bring staff to explain practical effects and any required ordinance or personnel-rule adjustments.
The issue now moves to the committee stage; the council will consider amendments or a formal vote after the working group reports its findings and recommended language.
