Newark Fire Department grapples with overtime budget
The Newark Fire Department is perilously close to consuming the overtime funds set aside in its annual budget, with just $2,350 remaining of the more than $230,000 it was originally apportioned, according to the Newark Advocate.
To secure additional funds, shift scheduling has been altered, all off-duty noncontractual training and public education programs have been eliminated, and mandatory staff meetings have been deferred to optional online meetings.
Additionally, the news source reports that $25,000 was recently transferred into the department's overtime account, which will ensure that there is enough money to compensate employee attendance for the next few pay periods.
The city currently employs 81 firefighters, a decrease of 4 from last year.
"The reason the city is spending money on overtime is because the fire department is short staffed," David McElfresh, president of Newark's International Association of Fire Fighters Local 109, told the news source. "If we had the right number of fire fighters on duty, the city would not have to pay overtime."
Elsewhere in the country, a Key Largo, Florida, firefighter is suing the city for more than $8,000 of overtime, according to the Upper Keys Reporter.
To secure additional funds, shift scheduling has been altered, all off-duty noncontractual training and public education programs have been eliminated, and mandatory staff meetings have been deferred to optional online meetings.
Additionally, the news source reports that $25,000 was recently transferred into the department's overtime account, which will ensure that there is enough money to compensate employee attendance for the next few pay periods.
The city currently employs 81 firefighters, a decrease of 4 from last year.
"The reason the city is spending money on overtime is because the fire department is short staffed," David McElfresh, president of Newark's International Association of Fire Fighters Local 109, told the news source. "If we had the right number of fire fighters on duty, the city would not have to pay overtime."
Elsewhere in the country, a Key Largo, Florida, firefighter is suing the city for more than $8,000 of overtime, according to the Upper Keys Reporter.
All data and information provided on this news blog is for informational purposes only. Infinisource makes no representations as to accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this site and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. All information is provided on an as-is basis. Information regarding employment suits and other legal action is not updated after publication, and may not be current.