Baton Rouge Firefighters Deserve Your Support: Vote YES on November 5, 2024
The time has come for Baton Rouge to rally behind its bravest. On November 5, 2024, the community will have the opportunity to vote on a crucial proposition that directly impacts the lives of the firefighters who protect us daily. The firefighters of IAFF Local 557 have faithfully served the City of Baton Rouge, risking their lives to ensure the safety and well-being of every resident. Now, they need your help.
Now is the time to address a pressing issue: Baton Rouge Firefighters Are Falling Behind
Our firefighters face a severe pay gap that affects retention and recruitment. At a starting salary of just $33,000 annually, Baton Rouge firefighters earn 20% less than the industry standard, where neighboring departments offer an average of $40,000. This disparity disadvantages Baton Rouge, making it harder to retain experienced firefighters and recruit new talent to protect our city.
Firefighters dedicate their lives to keeping us safe. They are the first responders to emergencies, fires, and life-threatening situations. They leave their families behind to ensure that ours are safe. Yet, their compensation does not reflect the sacrifices they make. This is more than just about money—it’s about fairness, respect, and ensuring that the people who protect us are adequately supported.
The Solution: A Modest Millage to Bring Pay to Industry Standards
On November 5, 2024, voters will decide on a proposed 6Mill property millage that will be used solely and exclusively to raise the salaries and benefits of Baton Rouge firefighters. This is a beacon of hope, the first time in 24 years that our firefighters have asked the public for a new millage. The last time this request was made was in 2000. The firefighters have been incredibly patient, and this millage is critical to closing the pay gap that has been growing for decades.
If passed, this millage will bring all Baton Rouge Fire Department employees up to industry-standard pay levels, offering a 17% to 20% pay raise for every firefighter. This adjustment will not only reward the dedication of our current firefighters but also make Baton Rouge more competitive in attracting new recruits to the department.
Why You Should Vote YES
- Safety for Our Community: Well-compensated firefighters mean a safer Baton Rouge. If our department cannot recruit and retain top talent, the entire community is at risk. Voting “YES” ensures that Baton Rouge has a well-staffed, experienced fire department ready to protect us.
- It’s the First Request in 24 Years: Baton Rouge firefighters have been operating on a single millage since the year 2000. Asking for an adjustment after nearly a quarter of a century is more than reasonable, especially considering the pay disparity they now face.
- This is a Modest Request: The 6Mill property millage is a modest proposal aimed solely at adjusting salaries and benefits to industry standards. It’s not a luxury request—it’s a necessary step to ensure fairness and competitiveness.
- Stronger Retention and Recruitment: Baton Rouge’s competitive salary will allow it to retain its experienced firefighters while attracting new, high-quality recruits. This will ensure that our fire department remains strong for future generations.
- A Decade-Long Solution: The proposed millage will last for 10 years, providing long-term stability for the fire department and its employees. This is a responsible and forward-thinking plan to keep our community safe.
A Small Price for a Safer Future
Firefighters are always there when we need them most, and now they are asking for our support. This millage is not just an investment in their futures—it’s an investment in the safety of our entire community. We owe it to the men and women who put their lives on the line for us every day.
By voting “YES” on November 5, 2024, you are standing up for fair pay, retention, recruitment, and a safer Baton Rouge. Together, we can ensure that our firefighters receive the respect, support, and compensation they deserve.
Please share this message with your family, friends, and neighbors. Let’s spread the word and ensure that everyone understands the importance of voting YES for our firefighters.