City of Houston reaches $650 million deal with fire union to help resolve outstanding pay issues

Houston firefighters are poised to secure their first contract with the city in eight years, marking the end of a lengthy political saga. Mayor John Whitmire, endorsed by the union during his campaign, has fulfilled his promise by reaching an agreement worth over $650 million. This deal aims to prevent costly legal battles and address longstanding issues of low morale and pay within the fire department.

Under the terms of the settlement:

– All current firefighters, retired firefighters, and families of deceased firefighters since 2017 will receive lump sum payments totaling $650 million.
– The raises implemented by former Mayor Sylvester Turner in 2021 will become permanent, with an additional 10% raise slated to begin in July.
– Further raises are planned over the next five years, culminating in a total pay increase of 34% by 2029.

Houston Professional Firefighters Association President Patrick “Marty” Lancton emphasized the significance of this agreement, noting that it provides hope for firefighters who have felt undervalued and underpaid.

Mayor Whitmire stressed the necessity of the agreement for recruiting and retaining firefighters to serve the city adequately, while also highlighting the benefits of avoiding prolonged legal battles and uncertainties.

However, the timing of the agreement coincides with Mayor Whitmire’s directive for most city departments to trim their budgets by 5%. To finance the firefighter contract, the city plans to issue judgment bonds, spreading the costs over several decades but incurring interest payments and additional debt.

Failure to address the issue would have exposed the city to potential liabilities exceeding $1 billion, as Lancton pointed out.

Lawyers are set to present the settlement to a judge on Monday, paving the way for its implementation as early as next week.