In a recent government meeting, officials discussed significant changes to staffing levels within the fire department, proposing a reduction from 150 to 141 authorized personnel. This shift aims to address ongoing challenges related to recruitment, attrition, and overtime costs. Currently, the department has 143 employees, and officials plan to reach the new staffing level through natural attrition rather than layoffs.

The proposed staffing model would maintain a daily shift assignment of 47 firefighters to cover 36 operational spots, taking into account historical leave usage. However, officials acknowledged that while this plan aims to minimize forced overtime, it may not eliminate it entirely, as some employees have reported missing important family events due to work obligations.

The discussion also highlighted the anticipated opening of two new fire stations, with staffing levels projected to increase to 145 personnel upon the opening of Station 6 in 2028 and to 165 with Station 7 in 2030. To meet these staffing needs, officials indicated that additional recruiting classes would be necessary, particularly to account for retirements and other attrition.

Concerns were raised about the current challenges in attracting candidates to public safety jobs, with officials noting that the allure of such positions has diminished in recent years. The department is actively engaging in targeted recruitment efforts, including outreach at community events and discussions with state legislators to enhance workforce capacity.

The meeting also addressed the financial implications of staffing changes, particularly regarding overtime costs. Officials reported that a significant portion of overtime expenses—estimated at 75-80%—is tied to maintaining a four-person crew on fire engines. Comparatively, many surrounding communities operate with three-person staffing, prompting discussions on how to align local practices with regional standards.

Overall, the meeting underscored the complexities of staffing within the fire department, balancing operational needs with budgetary constraints and community expectations. As the department navigates these changes, officials remain focused on ensuring adequate staffing levels to maintain public safety while addressing the challenges of recruitment and retention in the fire service.