In Houston, Texas, a contentious discussion arose among city council members regarding a proposed agreement to provide firefighters with retroactive pay and salary increases.
During a heated exchange that lasted over an hour on Wednesday, various council members challenged Mayor John Whitmire on the financial feasibility of the deal.
Houston City Council Member Tiffany Thomas expressed concerns about the city’s financial capacity to fulfill the proposed raises for firefighters. The debate underscored the longstanding dispute between firefighters and the city over compensation, which has spanned nearly a decade and encompassed political, legislative, and legal arenas.
Mayor Whitmire, who campaigned on resolving the issue, recently brokered an agreement addressing backpay and future raises, which was introduced for discussion during the council session.
Questions arose regarding the total cost of the agreement, with Houston City Council Member Edward Pollard seeking clarification on whether it would exceed a billion dollars.
City Attorney Arturo Michel indicated that the projected cost might indeed approach or surpass the billion-dollar mark.
Whitmire defended the agreement, highlighting that the potential costs could have been significantly higher if the matter had proceeded to court. The proposed deal includes $650 million in retroactive pay and substantial raises over a five-year period.
However, the agreement is subject to approval from multiple parties, including the city council, attorney general, and a judge.
In addressing concerns about funding, Whitmire mentioned the possibility of implementing new fees, such as a trash fee, to offset the costs. Notably, the city aims to finance the backpay through a $650 million bond, bypassing the need for voter approval.
When questioned about the decision not to put the matter to a public vote, Whitmire emphasized the need for expediency and certainty in resolving the issue, rejecting any politicization of the process.
City officials anticipate finalizing the agreement by July, pending the required approvals.
