In a significant shift for the Candia Fire Department, the Board of Selectmen has approved a new compensation structure that replaces the long-standing stipend system with an hourly wage model. This change, discussed during the September 13, 2024, meeting, comes in response to federal regulations that require consistent pay for firefighters, regardless of their hours worked.

Previously, firefighters accumulated points based on calls and training, which were then converted into a stipend at the end of the year. However, recent insights from a meeting attended by department members revealed that firefighters who are also working per diem cannot receive a lower stipend while earning an hourly wage elsewhere. As a result, the stipend system has been eliminated, and all firefighters will now receive pay based on their rank and experience, with compensation reflecting their qualifications.

The new system mandates that firefighters be paid every two weeks, regardless of the number of hours worked. This change aims to clarify the department's structure, emphasizing that while firefighters are compensated for calls and training, they remain volunteers who are not obligated to respond to emergencies unless they choose to do so.

The Board of Selectmen underscored that this adjustment is not a move towards a fully paid fire department but rather a necessary compliance with labor laws. The department will continue to rely on volunteers for community services, such as fire prevention activities, which remain unpaid.

This transition marks a pivotal moment for the Candia Fire Department, ensuring that compensation aligns with legal requirements while maintaining the volunteer spirit that has characterized the department for years. The board expressed confidence that this new structure will enhance operational clarity and support the dedicated volunteers who serve the community.