This department shall consist of sufficient officers and members necessary to operate available fire equipment as determined by the fire chief. Appointment, conduct and removal of officers and members shall be in accordance with the constitution, state law, ordinances of the city and the rules and regulations of the fire department now in existence and as hereafter amended, with the approval of the mayor and city council. (1989 Code § 12-1-4, 11-20-1990; amd. 1997 Code)