AUSTIN, Texas — Austin city leaders are considering a proposal that would require monthly public reports on overtime spending for the fire, police and EMS departments – a move supporters say will bring transparency to staffing and budget decisions.
The resolution, proposed by City Councilmember Ryan Alter (District 5), is supported by Austin Firefighters Association President Bob Nicks and Austin EMS Association President James Monks.
The resolution would direct the city manager to release overtime data on a monthly basis. Nicks said the reports will help dispel claims that firefighter absences are driving up overtime costs, while Monks believes it will highlight the impact of chronic short-staffing and fuel discussions on employee retention…