Boston Fire Department reviews residency requirement and diversity hiring strategies

The Boston City Council's Ways & Means Committee met on May 13, 2025, to discuss the fiscal year 2026 budget for the Boston Fire Department, focusing on recruitment strategies and infrastructure impacts on emergency response times.

A significant topic of discussion was the residency requirement for new firefighter recruits. Currently, applicants must have lived in Boston for at least one year before taking the civil service exam. However, a proposed hybrid pathway could allow up to 50% of new hires to bypass this requirement, potentially easing recruitment challenges. Commissioner Gaskin expressed a positive outlook on the residency requirement, noting that many successful candidates have strong ties to the city, often having attended Boston Public Schools.

The committee also addressed the impact of recent road infrastructure changes, particularly bike lanes and road diets in West Roxbury, on emergency response times. While no direct feedback from firefighters was reported regarding these changes, concerns were raised about how modifications to roadways could affect access for fire trucks. The Commissioner indicated that he would need to review specific proposals to assess their potential impact on fire department operations.

Additionally, the meeting highlighted the department's ongoing efforts to improve diversity within its ranks. The current class of recruits includes eight women, the largest number in the department's history. The committee discussed the importance of feeder programs aimed at underrepresented communities to enhance diversity in future hiring.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the Boston Fire Department's commitment to adapting its recruitment strategies and addressing infrastructure challenges while striving for a more diverse workforce. Further discussions and decisions will be necessary as the budget process continues.