Strongsville union president warns council the fire department is 'bottom light' and asks about hiring ordinance

John Douglas, identified as union president for Strongsville Firefighters Local 282, used the audience‑participation slot to press council on the status of Ordinance 2025-132, which relates to maximum ranks and promotional positions in the fire department. He said civil service scheduled a promotional test for February, anticipated promotions in April or May, and asked whether the ordinance under review will return to council in 2026.

Douglas said the department is "bottom light" and that "the firefighters have not grown in 30 years," describing sustained increases in workload and a current vacancy. He urged council to clarify whether hires will follow from the eligible list and asked for transparency about a reported change in civil-service procedures that would move from an entrance examination to an application-only process. Douglas warned that firefighters will oppose any change that lowers current hiring qualifications.

Mayor and staff responded that hiring and station staffing are being considered and that ordinances concerning staffing are forthcoming. Mayor Perciak said, "We're not gonna build it and not man it," and indicated the administration would address staffing alongside the new station and related ordinances.

Next steps: Union leaders said they expect the civil service and council to coordinate on hiring and promotional timelines and for any ordinances (including 2025-132) to return to council for discussion and potential vote.