(A) All volunteer fire companies which are organized according to law, in the city, shall constitute the Fire Department of the city. The governing body, for the purpose of defraying the cost of the management, maintenance and improving the Fire Department may each year levy a tax not exceeding the maximum limits prescribed by state law, on the actual valuation of all real estate and personal property within the city that is subject to taxation. The revenue from the said tax shall be at all times in the possession of the City Treasurer and shall be disbursed by him or her upon order of the Chief of the Fire Department and upon resolution of the Mayor and City Council directing the amount of such disbursements. No obligation, except in emergencies and with regard to minor expenditures, shall be incurred on behalf of the Fire Department unless authorized by a three-fourths vote of the City Council.
(B) The Chief of the Fire Department shall have authority to appoint members of the Fire Department, as provided by law. His or her selection shall first be submitted to the Mayor and City Council and shall be approved by them. All vacancies that may occur in the membership shall be filled in the same manner. The compensation of members of the Fire Department shall be such as may from time to time be fixed by the City Council. The exclusive control of the Fire Department, in all matters, except expenditures, shall be in the Mayor and the Chief of the Fire Department; provided, however, the City Council and Mayor may enter into agreements with surrounding Fire Districts for cooperation in providing mutual aid and protection for all residents therein.
(2005 Code, § 3-301)