Raleigh City Council reverses firefighter benefit cuts

RALEIGH (WTVD) -- The Raleigh City Council has reversed the decision to cut holiday and vacation benefits for firefighters.

The Civil Service Commission recommended the action after city council members unanimously approved the policy, which would also raise pay.

RELATED: Raleigh firefighters angry at sudden cuts to benefits

"It's encouraging that they actually listened, and I think it's just a testament when you do stand united," said firefighter Lieutenant Chris Ferrell. "We just want to be treated fairly and we feel like today was a win that we actually did get something."

What added to the controversy - and confusion - was the way in which the policy was approved unanimously by members of the Raleigh City Council: City Manager Ruffin Hall filed the proposal under the "Consent Agenda" section at the council's September 5 meeting.

Raleigh City Manager Ruffin Hall apologized to firefighters in what is being called a "mistake."

"There was never any intention in this process to mislead or hide information about these particular policies," said Hall. "It's simply not the way we do business and it's personally not one of the values that I believe in."

In regards to holiday pay, the new policy reduced pay from 16 to eight hours, which was significant for firefighters working 24-hour shifts.

RELATED: Raleigh City Council to vote on reversal of firefighter benefit cuts