Memphis, Tennessee, December 17, 2025
The Memphis City Council has approved a 2% salary increase for firefighters to help improve retention and compensate adequately for their services. The decision followed a contentious debate regarding the city’s budget and was influenced by previous grievances from the Memphis Fire Fighters Association concerning pay. With this raise, starting salaries for recruits will increase to approximately $47,534, while third-year firefighter/paramedics will see their salaries rise to about $82,620. The council’s vote reflected strong support despite concerns about financial implications.
Memphis City Council Approves 2% Raise for Firefighters
Memphis, Tennessee – The Memphis City Council voted on December 16, 2025, to approve a 2% raise for the Memphis Fire Department, following a contentious debate over the city’s fiscal health and the department’s compensation.
Details of the Raise
The approved raise will increase the starting salary for a Memphis Fire recruit from $46,210 to approximately $47,534. For third-year firefighter/paramedics, the salary will rise from just over $81,000 to about $82,620. This adjustment aims to address concerns about the department’s compensation and retention rates.
Background and Controversy
Earlier this year, the Memphis Fire Fighters Association filed a lawsuit against the city, alleging that a promised 5% raise was reduced to 3% without proper consultation. In October, Mayor Paul Young proposed a 2% raise, which was initially denied by the council. The recent approval comes after intense discussions and concerns about the city’s spending practices. Council members, including Chase Carlisle, questioned the financial implications of the raise, citing the city’s spending issues. Despite these concerns, the council approved the raise with eight votes in favor, three against, and two abstentions.
Implications for the Fire Department
The raise is expected to improve morale and aid in retaining experienced personnel within the department. Fire Chief Colin Burress emphasized the importance of fair compensation, stating that the department’s personnel are among the best in the nation and deserve appropriate pay for their services. The department continues to face challenges related to high run volumes and the need for adequate staffing to maintain public safety.
Conclusion
The approval of the 2% raise reflects the council’s recognition of the critical role the fire department plays in Memphis. While the decision was met with fiscal concerns, it underscores the city’s commitment to supporting its first responders and ensuring the safety of its residents.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the new starting salary for a Memphis Fire recruit after the 2% raise?
The new starting salary for a Memphis Fire recruit is approximately $47,534, up from $46,210.
How does the 2% raise affect the salary of a third-year firefighter/paramedic?
The salary for a third-year firefighter/paramedic will increase from just over $81,000 to about $82,620.
Why was there controversy surrounding the firefighter pay raise?
The controversy stemmed from a lawsuit filed by the Memphis Fire Fighters Association, alleging that a promised 5% raise was reduced to 3% without proper consultation. Additionally, council members expressed concerns about the city’s spending practices during the approval process.
What impact is the raise expected to have on the Memphis Fire Department?
The raise is expected to improve morale and aid in retaining experienced personnel within the department, addressing challenges related to high run volumes and staffing needs.
How did the Memphis City Council vote on the 2% raise?
The council approved the raise with eight votes in favor, three against, and two abstentions.
Key Features of the 2% Firefighter Raise
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Raise Percentage | 2% |
| New Starting Salary for Fire Recruit | Approximately $47,534 |
| New Salary for Third-Year Firefighter/Paramedic | About $82,620 |
| Council Vote Outcome | 8 in favor, 3 against, 2 abstentions |
| Controversy | Concerns over reduced promised raise and city’s spending practices |
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Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
