The City of Gardner Council meeting on October 21, 2024, featured a significant presentation from Fire District 1 regarding its budget and operational priorities for the upcoming year. The meeting highlighted the district's commitment to providing high-quality fire and emergency services to the community while addressing staffing and compensation challenges.

Fire District 1's Administrative Services Manager presented the district's mission, emphasizing its dedication to compassionate service and rapid response to the diverse needs of Gardner's residents. The district operates with a budget authority of approximately $13.9 million for 2025, which includes capital improvements and reserves. The proposed mill levy for the upcoming year is set at 17.156, reflecting a slight increase from the previous year, although adjustments may bring it down to 16.902.

A key focus of the discussion was the district's staffing situation. Fire District 1 has experienced a 10.6% reduction in its operations division due to competitive pay issues, making it the second lowest paid fire department in Johnson County. The district plans to implement a 5% pay raise for firefighters and a 9% raise for company officers to help retain staff and improve morale. Despite these increases, the district anticipates remaining behind the average pay scale in the county.

The presentation also addressed the importance of wellness programs for firefighters, including annual physicals and educational incentives to encourage professional development. The district aims to enhance its strategic planning efforts to better address these challenges moving forward.

In conclusion, the Fire District 1 presentation underscored the ongoing efforts to improve service delivery and employee satisfaction while navigating budgetary constraints and staffing challenges. The council's support for these initiatives will be crucial as the district seeks to maintain its commitment to the community.