Firefighters win $465K overtime settlement

A federal judge approved a $465,000 settlement on Tuesday. The payment resolves a lawsuit brought by 68 firefighters in Brownsburg. The crew sought unpaid overtime and corrected pay calculations.

David Brock, president of Hendricks County Professional Firefighters IAFF Local 4406, issued a statement regarding the deal. He noted that the money covers hours worked but leaves the underlying system issues open. Brock stated that residents deserve a clear account of how the town handled the pay concerns.

The conflict started in December 2023. A firefighter questioned a specific paycheck. Local 4406 raised the issue with department leaders. An internal review fixed that particular error in January 2024. However, wider questions about overtime math and the compensation structure remained unresolved.

The union sought a legal review from the International Association of Fire Fighters in April 2024. They sent formal notice to the town under the Fair Labor Standards Act on August 9, 2024. Firefighters filed suit in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Indiana on May 5, 2025.

While the case was pending, Brownsburg changed its payroll method. The town switched firefighters to an hourly pay system effective April 6, 2026. Officials said hourly rates provide a clearer way to track time and calculate overtime. Brock added that the change helps ensure compliance with federal law and guarantees payment for all time worked.