Wilmington Council discusses recruitment role for fire department amid budget considerations

The Wilmington City Council convened on April 23, 2025, to discuss the Fiscal Year 2026 budget, focusing on key personnel changes within the Wilmington Police Department (WPD) and Wilmington Fire Department (WFD). The meeting highlighted the introduction of new positions and the importance of recruitment and retention strategies for public safety personnel.

The discussion began with confirmation that the proposed budget includes funding for 30 new positions across various departments. Council Member McCoy raised concerns regarding the recruitment and retention officer role, originally intended to focus on the fire department. McCoy emphasized the necessity of maintaining a dedicated focus on fire personnel, expressing apprehension that the role might become diluted by being placed under the Human Resources (HR) department.

In response, city officials assured council members that while the recruitment and retention officer would be situated in HR, the position would specifically cater to the needs of the fire department. They emphasized the importance of ensuring that the officer would also have the flexibility to address citywide recruitment and retention issues.

Council members expressed strong support for the role, reiterating the need for a dedicated focus on the fire department's environment and the retention of firefighters. They underscored the significance of listening to the concerns of public safety personnel to ensure their needs are met and to maintain a safe community.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from city officials to prioritize the recruitment and retention of firefighters while also addressing broader HR responsibilities. The council's discussions reflect a proactive approach to enhancing public safety services in Wilmington, ensuring that the voices of firefighters and law enforcement are heard and valued in the budgetary process.