Cranston officials propose making Rescue 5 a full‑time staffed unit

Cranston — The city administration and fire union have reached a recommendation to staff Rescue 5 as a full‑time rescue unit, Director Anthony Moretti told the City Council on Nov. 17.

Moretti said Rescue 5 has operated part time with voluntary coverage and that calls have increased over time. He said discussions with the fire administration and union concluded it is appropriate to convert Rescue 5 to full‑time staffing, adding approximately eight firefighters. The conversion will require a memorandum of understanding with the union, an ordinance to amend budget lines, and related fiscal work; Moretti said those documents are in development and expected in days to weeks.

Council members from multiple wards praised the move as a public‑safety investment. Councilman Manano and others noted large nearby senior‑housing complexes and the senior center in the area that would benefit from faster response times. Members acknowledged the added cost but said some rescue runs generate Medicaid or insurance revenue that can offset expenses. The administration said it will return with a fiscal package and ordinance amendment for council approval.