The commission will consider applicants with paramedic credentials.
WESTFIELD — The city’s Fire Commission plans to hire at least three new firefighter/paramedics as early as September to fill current vacancies.
Commission chairman Albert J. Masciadrelli said the commission has requested a Civil Service eligibility list to use in filling current vacancies.
“We are waiting for the list to arrive,” said Masciadrelli. “The commission hopes to make these needed appointments by September.
“The department is down three positions and more are anticipated later in the year,” he said.
Masciadrelli said the commission plans to appoint firefighters who already have paramedic credentials.
Mary ReganFire Chief Mary R. Regan said department personnel levels are now at 85 which includes all officers, emergency medical technicians, firefighters and paramedics.
The three openings are recent, occurring through retirements in June and July, officials said.
The commission appointed three new members to the department earlier this year. Those also filled vacancies created through retirement, Regan and Masciadrelli said.
One of those appointees began training last week at the Massachusetts State Fire Academy in Stowe. The other two are awaiting enrollment at the academy for the 12-week program, she said.
As for future retirements within the Fire Department, Regan said “There are several people who have the time and may retire at any time.”
Masciadrelli said “the department has a lot of personnel who are either at or approaching retirement.”
The department is also in line to acquire new equipment later this year in the form of a new platform vehicle.
Mayor Daniel M. Knapik plans to seek the required appropriation from the City Council this fall, charging the cost to free cash.
The city plans to lease the vehicle under a purchase and lease arrangement, the mayor has said.