The Dallas Civil Service meeting held on June 3, 2025, focused on a significant personnel issue involving the promotion process within the Dallas Fire Rescue Department. The discussion centered around the case of Mr. Carter, who was wrongfully terminated in November 2021 and subsequently reinstated in October 2023 after a lengthy appeal process.

The meeting began with a review of the civil service rules regarding promotions, specifically emphasizing that promotions should be based on merit and fitness as demonstrated through examinations and other competitive measures. Mr. Carter's situation was highlighted as a case where these rules may not have been properly interpreted or applied.

Following his reinstatement, Mr. Carter requested to take a fire lieutenant promotional examination, which was granted due to his wrongful termination. He completed the written exam in February 2024 and participated in the assessment center in April 2024. A new promotional list was published in May 2024, placing Mr. Carter at number 21. However, by this time, 47 members had already been promoted from the list, and all budgeted fire lieutenant positions were filled.

On June 19, 2024, Dallas Fire Rescue created three new fire lieutenant positions and promoted three individuals ranked below Mr. Carter, skipping over him despite his higher placement on the eligibility list. This decision raised concerns about the adherence to civil service rules, particularly regarding the promotion process and the expectation that promotions occur in order of merit as vacancies arise.

The discussion included references to civil service rule 4.4, which states that promotional lists remain effective for 18 months, and the expectation that promotions should follow the established ranking. The interpretation of these rules was deemed correct, but the application was questioned, as it resulted in Mr. Carter being overlooked for promotion.

The meeting concluded with a reiteration of the importance of following established civil service procedures to ensure fairness and transparency in the promotion process. The implications of this case extend beyond Mr. Carter, as it raises broader questions about the integrity of the promotional system within the Dallas Fire Rescue Department and the expectations of all firefighters regarding their career advancement opportunities. Further actions and discussions are anticipated as the situation develops.