Robert Sizemore, speaking during the citizens forum, urged the council to support the Copperas Cove Fire Department, saying firefighters and paramedics are underpaid compared with neighboring departments and that staffing shortages put pressure on responders.

Sizemore, a former firefighter and paramedic, described the toll the work takes — missed family events and irregular hours — and asked the council what steps were being taken to relieve pressure on the department. He said the city operates four ALS ambulances but has staffing to support only one or two per shift, and argued the city should find ways to attract and retain personnel rather than rely on rumors or “whispers of scandal.”

Sizemore urged residents to thank first responders in person and said firefighters and paramedics “deserve our gratitude” and stronger, demonstrable support from the city. The comments were public input; the council did not take immediate action on staffing or pay at the meeting.