Ellis v. Fire Chief

This is an article 78 proceeding brought against the Chief of the Fire Department of the City of Ithaca and others for an order directing the payment to petitioner of a “ Longevity Merit Increase ” in wages provided under the compensation plan rules of the City of Ithaca. This plan was adopted by the Common Council and provided in part under paragraph 11 as follows:

“ An employee serving more than 10 years, 15 years or 20 years, is eligible for merit increases beyond the established maximum rates for his grade. Such merit increases are to be granted upon recommendation of the department head…