Lawrence local news summary

Commission sides with city in firefighter pay dispute, approves 3 percent raise in 3-1 vote

Independent fact-finder’s 4.5 percent recommendation rejected by commission

Union argues market data shows firefighters falling behind peers

City cites budget deficit, internal equity in pay proposal

Commissioner Sellers issues passionate dissent on firefighter pay vote

Clinton Water Treatment Plant honored for state’s best tasting tap water

County approves $100,000 child care scholarship challenge grant

Commission acknowledges low wages as a core child care challenge

Commission sides with city in firefighter pay dispute, approves 3 percent raise in 3-1 vote

LAWRENCE, Kan. — The Lawrence City Commission voted 3-1 Tuesday to resolve a contract impasse with the International Association of Firefighters Local 1596, approving the city’s proposal for a 3 percent wage adjustment for 2026. The decision rejects a 4.5 percent recommendation from an independent fact-finder, which the union had supported. The motion, which also moves employee step increases to the first pay period of the year for administrative efficiency, passed with Mayor Mike Dever and Commissioners Lisa Larsen and Bart Littlejohn in favor and Commissioner Amber Sellers opposed. Vice Mayor Brad Finkeldei was absent.

Independent fact-finder’s 4.5 percent recommendation rejected by commission

LAWRENCE, Kan. — A key point in the contract dispute between the city and its firefighters’ union was the recommendation of an independent fact-finder, which the city commission ultimately set aside Tuesday. The fact-finder, an unbiased third party brought in after negotiations reached an impasse, had recommended a 4.5 percent wage adjustment for firefighters. While the union adopted this figure in its final proposal, city management maintained its 3 percent offer due to budget constraints, a position the commission majority supported in its final vote.

Union argues market data shows firefighters falling behind peers

LAWRENCE, Kan. — Representatives for the International Association of Firefighters Local 1596 argued Tuesday that its members’ compensation is falling behind comparable departments in the region. Union representative Seamus Albritton presented data asserting that Lawrence firefighters are paid, on average, below the market median for their positions, particularly given that the department also serves as the primary ambulance service. The union contended that a 3 percent raise would not keep pace with a market that has seen higher recent increases, causing them to fall further behind.

City cites budget deficit, internal equity in pay proposal

LAWRENCE, Kan. — City officials justified their 3 percent wage offer to the firefighters’ union by citing budget challenges and a commitment to internal equity among employee groups. Human Resources Director Megan Dodge said the proposal aligned with the city’s overall budget outlook and pay considerations for other employees. Officials also noted that a new pay plan implemented this year increased firefighter salaries, and a comprehensive citywide pay study is planned for 2026 to inform future negotiations.

Commissioner Sellers issues passionate dissent on firefighter pay vote

LAWRENCE, Kan. — During a tense debate Tuesday, Commissioner Amber Sellers cast the sole vote against the city’s proposed 3 percent wage adjustment for firefighters, arguing the commission constrained itself during budget talks. Sellers said the commission did not raise the mill levy enough to provide latitude for negotiations, despite public support for public safety, and advocated for a larger increase to keep the fire department competitive.

Clinton Water Treatment Plant honored for state’s best tasting tap water

LAWRENCE, Kan. — The city commission on Tuesday recognized the Clinton Water Treatment Plant for winning the 2025 “Best Tasting Tap Water” award from the Kansas Section of the American Water Works Association. Steve Nirschl, the section’s board chair, presented a trophy to plant staff. This is the second such award for the city, with the Kaw River Water Treatment Plant having won in 2019.

County approves $100,000 child care scholarship challenge grant

DOUGLAS COUNTY, Kan. — The Douglas County Commission on Wednesday approved a plan to launch a $100,000 Douglas County Community Child Care Scholarship Challenge Fund in 2026. The county’s investment will match contributions from local businesses, foundations and private donors — with a goal of doubling the pool to $200,000. Positive Bright Start will help manage the program, connecting eligible families with participating child care providers, as part of the county’s broader anti-poverty strategy.

Commission acknowledges low wages as a core child care challenge

DOUGLAS COUNTY, Kan. — While discussing the scholarship fund, commissioners noted that low wages for early-childhood staff remain a critical challenge — with many workers qualifying for the very assistance programs the county funds. Commissioner Karen L. Willey said workforce pay must be addressed in parallel, balancing affordability for families with sustainable provider wages.

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