Despite the fire department seeking approval for the plan, the city will consider the latest funding resolution within the next 72 hours.
MIDLAND, Texas — More tense negotiations took place Wednesday between the city of Midland and firefighters regarding the City of Midland Firefighter Retirement Relief Fund.
The funding resolution submitted by the fire department had some changes, but was dependent on the city’s ability to contribute.
“We submitted a resolution stating how we would like to move forward with the plan changes. We held a re-vote.” “This time, it was contingent on the city doing its part, coming to the table and making sure that we were willing to help resolve this issue of liability that we have.”
Part of the plan included cutting firefighter benefits by 5% to give the city and taxpayers more help funding the plan, but there were a number of other changes to both parties’ responsibilities. Ta.
“Under this plan, firefighters would pay 40% of the total liability and the city would only pay 60% of the total liability,” Graham said. We are moving forward and striving to achieve this, as this issue is not yet resolved. ”
But city representatives had mixed feelings about the new plan.
They said they felt like they were blindsided by the funding resolution and only learned about it after sitting at the table Wednesday.
Tensions began to rise when Midland Mayor Lori Bron asked the city for 72 hours to review the resolution with legal counsel in order to vote to properly approve it.
“The 72 hours is because it takes 72 hours to post a public meeting. So I think they wanted to stop this meeting and hear from some of the experts,” Graham said.
Although the city ultimately got its wish for 72 hours, many firefighters on the scene said they were disappointed by the lack of action.
“As we were educating our members about this vote, we were being told that the city was going to do something important. It was always said that after a financial collapse, the city came back and put in an additional 2% contribution.”Despite the firefighters’ well-considered trust, the city was not serious about solving this problem. ,” Graham said.
“On behalf of the Midland City Council, I would like to reiterate our commitment to creating a Fire Relief and Retirement Fund,” Mayor Bron told NewsWest 9. We recognize the importance of this, and we appreciate the dedication of all parties to advance this issue.We will continue this conversation at Monday’s special meeting to find the best solution for Midland and our first responders. I look forward to working together.”
The board agreed to issue a request for proposals for a lobbyist to represent the pension fund.
The next board meeting is scheduled for Nov. 4 at 2 p.m.
