(A) Generally. The Department shall consist of a Fire Chief, two Assistant Chiefs, and a number of firefighters as shall be determined from time to time by the City Council. All firefighters shall be hired by the City Council as part-time, on-call employees of the city, and shall be subject to requirements established from time to time by the City Council pertaining to the qualifications, physical condition, training, duties, and other matters as may be required for the lawful and safe operation of the Fire Department.
(B) Duties of the Chief. The Chief shall report to and be accountable to the City Council. The Chief shall be responsible for and have control at all times over the care and condition of all the firefighting apparatus, equipment, firefighters, and quarters used by the Fire Department. The Chief shall be responsible for the training and supervision of the members of the Department, subject to policies and procedures established by the City Council. The Chief shall make recommendations to the Council concerning the needs of the Department, and maintain records concerning all activities of the Department. The Chief shall assist the proper authorities in suppressing the crime of arson by investigation or causing to be investigated the cause, origin, and circumstances of all fires.
(C) Selection of officers.
(1) The Chief shall be appointed by the City Council for a term of four years ending on December 31, 2012 and every fourth year thereafter. The City Council may solicit the recommendation(s) of the members of the Fire Department prior to appointment of the Chief.
(2) The Assistant Chiefs shall be appointed by the City Council for a term of two years ending on March 1, 2011 and every second year thereafter. The City Council shall solicit the recommendation(s) of the Chief prior to the appointment of the Assistant Chiefs.
(3) The Chief may appoint other officers within the Department for terms not to exceed two years as may be deemed necessary for the management of the Fire Department, subject to approval by the City Council.
(D) Rules and policies. The City Council shall have the power and authority to approve rules for the government of the Fire Department, define the duties of its officers, and provide for the discipline and/or discharge of all personnel.
(Ord. 117, passed 5-19-2009)