Fire Station 1 remodel planned as compensation study recommends pay increases for police and fire

John Gabaldon described a planned interior remodel of Fire Station 1 to add bathrooms, locker rooms and living quarters so the facility can support eight firefighters and improve health and safety; he said funding for the project includes $1.1 million from the village, a $500,000 state grant and a $100,000–$200,000 contingency set aside. "This is a firehouse not a fire station," Gabaldon said to emphasize the scope of interior changes.

Human Resources/finance presenter Marcos Castillo summarized the FY27 classification and compensation study. He reported three separate BPS pay structures (municipal, police, fire) and projected a village‑wide payroll increase of 3.8% (about 5.5% including step increases). Castillo said the study recommended a 5.43% increase across the board for the Police Department and a 6.33% increase for the Fire Department to bring entry‑level pay closer to market; he also noted 18 title housekeeping changes and potential bilingual and incentive stipends.