Donor overturns pay cuts for Artesia police, firefighters

ARTESIA, N.M. (AP) – Police and firefighters in Artesia will not have their salaries slashed thanks to an anonymous donor.

The city announced immediate pay cuts of 10 percent last month for all employees for the fiscal year that began July 1.

Officials say the cost-cutting measure was necessary in the wake of a revenue decline from the oil and gas industries.

Mayor Phil Burch says a “local entity” came forward this week with a gift that will ensure all first responder personnel receive their normal wages for the rest of the year.

Burch did not disclose the amount but it would likely be around $320,000, based on the city’s budget.

The donation affects 62 police and firefighters.

City officials, however, say there are still 120 city workers going home with smaller paychecks.

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9/17/2016 12:38:57 PM (GMT -6:00)