PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) — The city of Providence is planning to hire between 35 and 50 new firefighters to fill vacancies officials say cost millions of dollars a year in overtime costs.
Mayor Angel Taveras (tuh-VEHR'-us) announced the "Hire Fire Providence" campaign Monday at the Messer Street Fire Station. He says the city is now accepting applications for the next fire academy. It will be the first in four years.
Officials say the new hiring will ultimately save the city about $1 million a year. The city will strive to recruit local applicants and work with workforce development agencies to help them prepare for the academy's entrance tests.
Taveras says public safety overtime has contributed considerably to the city's budget deficit.
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