Rochester Hills Gives Temporary Pay Bump to Firefighters and Paramedics

Rochester Hills Gives Temporary Pay Bump to Firefighters and Paramedics
(Crystal A. Proxmire, April 15, 2020)
Rochester Hills, MI –  In light of the dangers being faced by first responders due to the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus, Rochester Hills City Council voted Monday to give them a temporary raise.
The resolution grants “hazard pay” of “10% premium per hour while performing medical, fire, and first responder duties retroactive to March 24,2020 for the duration of the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency… or 90 days from March 24, 2020, whichever comes first.”
Council President Ryan Deel posted about the decision on Facebook, stating “During last night’s online City Council meeting, the Rochester Hills City Council unanimously approved hazard pay for our firefighters, who have really gone above and beyond during this Coronavirus pandemic. The Council resolution reads, in part, “Although such pay would be in addition to budgeted compensation under current union contracts, the City recognizes that some special consideration is warranted due to the heightened risk of exposure associated with performing emergency medical and fire rescue duties under the current state of emergency.”




“Chief Sean Canto told us that every run by the fire department comes with the risk of exposure to COVID-19. We appreciate the hard work of our fire department, Sheriff Deputies, DPS employees and all essential workers for everything they are doing during this time.”
Rochester Hills Professional Firefighters Local 3472 shared the President’s post, adding their own sentiments.  “We appreciate working in a city that supports us and what we do during this unprecedented time. We will continue to respond to all calls for service. We might just look a little different when we show up,” they said, with a trio of face-mask wearing emojis.

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