Letter of the Day: City Council has insulted group of selfless, dedicated workers

This is in response to the article in Saturday’s R&L titled "Pay plan neglects low-rank workers," regarding Statesville’s new pay plan.

First, let me say thank you to Councilman "Jap" Johnson for standing up for the firefighters. As the wife of a Statesville firefighter, I know they appreciate it, as do I.

The other council members should explain how they can give everyone else in the city a pay raise and overlook a specific group of individuals and say it has nothing to do with how important their positions are.

These guys put their lives on the line every day and think nothing of it. Being a firefighter is a calling. It’s not a job for these guys every third day. The majority of them are volunteers at their home departments and also work at paid county departments on their days off.

They have to do this to make a decent living for their families. But it’s what they love and live for, so they keep on doing it. I suppose the city council realizes it doesn’t matter what they pay the firefighters because they’ll keep on applying.

Just because you have the people applying doesn’t mean the positions should not be adequately compensated for training, time away from family and dangers involved.

When it comes down to it, it doesn’t matter what you pay the firefighters, they will be there no matter what. When anyone needs help, they’ll answer the call, because that’s what they’ve been called to do.

They’ve already proven themselves as valuable city employees. Don’t disrespect these guys and all they’ve done for the city by "altering the new pay plan" as you see fit.

I urge all who live within the city to think about this the next time you vote for your council seats. Please elect officials who will keep our public servants’ best interests in mind, because these employees are looking out for you and your home every day.

Jennifer Russell
Mt. Ulla