Glens Falls, NY (WRGB) -- Lt. Doug Holl and his family are breathing a sigh of relief after the Glens Falls Common Council voted Tuesday night to grant the longtime firefighter his full retirement benefits.
Holl was forced to retire two years short of qualifying for full benefits due to his early-onset Alzheimer's diagnosis. Initially, the city rejected a proposal that would have allowed firefighters to donate their paid time off to help Holl reach the 20-year service mark required for full retirement.
Following public pressure and continued advocacy from the firefighters' union, the council reconsidered and approved the measure. With the decision, Holl will receive 50% of his annual salary in retirement, rather than the 29% he was previously set to receive.
It was a great being able to get that done because that was pretty heavy on us," Lt. Doug Holl said.
"It's just been an emotional rollercoaster, but it's a relief," Holl's wife, Heather Holl, said after the vote. "One hurdle down -- lots more to go."
The council's decision was met with applause from supporters attending the meeting.
The Glens Falls Firefighters' Union is continuing efforts to support the family, organizing a T-shirt fundraiser to help cover expenses. Holl has also been named a recipient of this year's South High Marathon Dance, an annual event at South Glens Falls High School that raises money for local families in need. The fundraiser will take place Feb. 28 and March 1.