How do we show people that we value them?
For nearly a year, Lexington firefighters have worked without a contract. We have now gone more than 700 days without a pay raise. During that time, inflation has increased the cost of housing, groceries, child care, health care, and nearly every other household expense. Yet every day, the firefighters of Lexington continue to answer the call.
Lexington firefighters respond to fires, medical emergencies, vehicle crashes, and hazardous situations at all hours of the day and night. We do so proudly because serving this community is a privilege.
This issue is about more than wages. It is about value.
Value is demonstrated through actions. When employees go nearly a year without a contract and almost two years without a raise, it sends a message about how their work is valued.
Lexington residents expect exceptional public safety services, and our firefighters are proud to deliver them. But attracting and retaining highly trained firefighters becomes increasingly difficult when compensation does not keep pace with neighboring communities or the rising cost of living.
Lexington firefighters earn below-average wages compared to those in our comparable communities.
The men and women of the Lexington Fire Department remain committed to protecting this community. We continue to provide the professional service residents deserve, regardless of the status of our contract.
We know that Lexington’s residents value their firefighters; we hear it and see it every day. We hope that Town officials will demonstrate through their actions that they value the firefighters who stand ready to answer the call 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.


Respectfully,
Rob Green
President
Lexington Fire Fighters Local 1491

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