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Public Safety Committee fast-tracks contract with National Testing Network for Akron Fire promotions

City of Akron — Committee Meetings (Public Service; Public Safety) · April 21, 2026

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Summary

The Public Safety Committee moved to suspend rules and gave a favorable report so the mayor can contract with National Testing Network to conduct promotional exams for Akron Fire lieutenant, captain and district chief ranks; Chief Anderson said three lieutenant vacancies exist and retirements are expected.

The Public Safety Committee voted to suspend the rules and give a favorable report so an ordinance authorizing the mayor to contract with National Testing Network (NTN) for Akron Fire promotional examinations can go to council the same evening.

"We're requesting that we have promotional examinations for the lieutenant's position, for the captain position, and for our district chief's position," Chief Anderson told the committee. He said the request seeks to ensure the department has active promotional lists as retirements occur: "Right now, we have ... 3 lieutenant vacancy positions that are available right now and open." Chief Anderson added that promotional lists are valid for two years and that the department expects retirements in the coming months.

An HR representative said the HR department administers testing and noted the item commonly goes through the budget committee; co-presenting with the chief condensed the process for committee review. Councilman Garrett asked why NTN was chosen and whether the approach would address staffing concerns; Chief Anderson said NTN was selected based on prior success, testing security and vendor methodology and said the department plans to seat an interest-exam class in the third quarter to ensure cadets complete required live-burn training before winter. The chief said the next class goal is roughly 25 candidates.

Committee members moved, seconded and approved suspension of rules on a voice vote so the ordinance could proceed to full council that night. The transcript records the motion and voice approval but does not include a roll-call tally.