FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Administrative Law Judge Rules in Favor of Edward Ross: Troy Violated State Law by Terminating Firefighter Who Ran for Office
Troy, MI: An Administrative Law Judge has ruled that the City of Troy acted illegally when it terminated Edward Ross from the Troy Fire Department after he filed to run for City Council. The judge found that Ross was an “employee” under the Political Activities by Public Employees Act (PAPEA) and was unlawfully removed from service for exercising his right to run for elected office.
The decision not only reinstates Ross as a Troy firefighter but also affirms that public servants in Troy cannot be silenced or punished for participating in democracy.
—
Why the Ruling Matters
This ruling is historic for Troy and for Michigan:
- It affirms that Troy firefighters are not “just volunteers.” The judge recognized that firefighters like Ross are employees because of the City’s control, compensation, training, and discipline structure. The ruling directly rejected the City’s attempt to classify firefighters as unpaid hobbyists.
- It confirms that the City of Troy broke the law. By terminating Ross on May 1, 2024, simply because he filed to run for public office, the City violated the Political Activities by Public Employees Act (PAPEA). The ruling makes clear that no city can use its power to retaliate against those who choose to serve in elected office.
- It restores fairness and integrity. The ruling reinstates Ross as a firefighter, restores his full service credit toward the incentive plan, and opens the door for attorney’s fees. This means Ross returns to service with his record cleared and his rights upheld.
- It exposes the City’s failed legal strategy. For months, the City tried to dismiss, delay, and distort the facts. The ALJ flatly rejected the City’s reliance on federal “volunteer” case law, pointing instead to Michigan law, which holds municipalities accountable for how they treat their firefighters.
—
Ed Ross’ Statement
“This ruling is a clear affirmation that firefighters are public employees with rights, including the right to participate in our democracy by seeking elected office,” Ross said. “I am grateful that the record spoke for itself and that the law was upheld.”
Ross, who is running for Troy City Council in the November election, emphasized that public safety remains his top priority. “This decision is not just about me. It’s about ensuring that no firefighter in Troy or anywhere in the state of Michigan is again treated unfairly for serving both our city and our democracy. Our community deserves a Fire Department that is supported and respected.”
—
Acknowledgements:
Ross expressed appreciation to those who supported him through the case.
“I want to thank my family, my neighbors, and all of the current and and retired firefighters who stood with me. I especially want to thank my attorney, Nanette Cortese The Cortese Law Firm (https://www.thecorteselawfirm.com/), for her professionalism and dedication to seeing this case through.”
—
Looking Ahead
Ross is seeking one of three open seats on Troy City Council in November. His campaign priorities include:
- Strengthening the Fire Department and restoring the firefighter incentive plan
- Improving police retention and EMS services
- Protecting Troy’s green spaces from overdevelopment
- Expanding senior programs and services
“This ruling allows me to continue focusing on what matters most: public safety, good governance, and protecting Troy’s future,” Ross concluded.
For more information, visit Ed4Troy.com.