The fire department shall consist of a chief of the fire department, to be appointed by the mayor with the approval of the city council, and such other personnel as the mayor and council may, from time to time, determine necessary. The chief and such assistants shall hold office for the duration of his or their appointment or until such time as he or they may be removed. (1959 Code §§ 1-15-1, 3-3-2; amd. 2003 Code)