Published on July 02, 2025
During a work session at the June 24 City Council meeting, the Council continued its discussion about compensation for Addison’s sworn Police and Fire personnel. This conversation builds on a January 7 work session where staff presented challenges in recruiting and retaining sworn public safety employees, along with options for transitioning to a performance-based step pay structure.
After reviewing several options, the majority of the Council expressed support for moving toward a step pay plan, with most leaning toward Options 3 and 4, which align Addison’s compensation with market averages plus an additional one percent. Council directed the City Manager to use Option 4 for budgeting purposes as staff prepares the FY2026 budget.
Both options move sworn Police and Fire personnel to a performance-based step pay structure based on years of service, designed to achieve a market competitive pay level (market average plus 1%). The primary differences between the two are cost and implementation time.
Both plans are performance-based, meaning employees must meet expectations to receive step increases. Additionally, in the first year of implementation, there are no funds available for one-time performance-based lump sum payments.
This discussion reflects the Council’s continued focus on ensuring Addison remains competitive in attracting and retaining highly qualified public safety professionals while being mindful of long-term financial sustainability.