Crime & Safety

Report: Some Montgomery County Firefighters Collecting Nearly 6-Figures in Overtime

The Washington Post reports that the county agency racked up almost $17 million in overtime last year.

The constant demands of working as a firefighter combined with general understaffing of Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Services contributed to the department spending nearly $17 million in overtime last year, The Washington Post reported. 

The Post reviewed Montgomery County Council's Office of Legislative Oversight's study of fiscal 2012. 

Seven fire captains made at least $200,000 last year, thanks to nearly $100,000 over their base salaries in overtime pay, The Post reported. 

“This is why people in the private sector look at the public sector and ask, ‘How do you get away with it?’ ” said councilwoman Valerie Ervin (D-Dist 5), of Silver Spring.

The article noted that overtime is cheaper than hiring more career firefighters.

Read more at The Washington Post's website

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