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Shrewsbury fire chief warns of high turnover; board backs exploring lateral-entry academy
Summary
Fire Chief Chris Amenn reported a recent firefighter resignation and widespread turnover; he and neighboring municipalities propose a lateral-entry academy to broaden hiring eligibility, and Mayor Travaglini asked staff to draft a supporting resolution.
Fire Chief Chris Amenn told the Board of Aldermen on Nov. 11 that the department has experienced high turnover and that a firefighter who joined the department in June recently resigned. Chief Amenn attributed the departures to other fire districts and municipalities offering higher pay and said this trend is affecting about 18 municipal fire stations in St. Louis County.
Chief Amenn described a proposed lateral-entry academy intended to make dually certified firefighters from other parts of Missouri eligible for hire in St. Louis County even if they did not attend the St. Louis County Fire Academy. The proposal is a regional effort among municipalities to expand the pool of qualified candidates.
Mayor Mike Travaglini thanked Chief Amenn for raising the issue and asked the Board of Aldermen to consider a statement or resolution supporting the lateral-entry academy effort. Alderman John Odenwald suggested that Shrewsbury coordinate with other municipalities to encourage similar resolutions, which he said would strengthen the regional initiative.
No formal motion to adopt a resolution was recorded on Nov. 11; aldermen expressed support in principle and directed staff to prepare an appropriate statement if desired. The board will consider any draft resolution or intermunicipal coordination at a future meeting.
