The Stow City Council convened on June 26, 2025, to address pressing concerns regarding the city's fire department staffing and emergency response capabilities. Chief Stone presented a compelling case for increasing firefighter personnel, highlighting a significant rise in call volume that has outpaced the department's current staffing model.

Over the past decade, Stow has experienced a 44% increase in emergency calls, with projections indicating over 6,500 calls for service by the end of next year. This surge has led to a concerning trend of overlapping incidents, where multiple calls occur simultaneously, leaving the department stretched thin. Currently, 68% of calls this year have been overlapping, compared to 54% last year, raising alarms about the department's ability to respond effectively.

Chief Stone emphasized that the existing staffing levels, which have not changed since a 1999 study, are no longer sufficient to meet the community's needs. The department currently operates with 16 firefighters per shift, but this number is inadequate given the increasing demand for services. The chief proposed hiring two additional firefighters to bolster staffing on B and C shifts, which would allow for the deployment of a fourth ambulance and improve response times.

The council members engaged in a thorough discussion about the implications of this staffing increase, weighing budgetary concerns against the urgent need for enhanced public safety. Councilwoman Coffey expressed the importance of understanding the financial impact of overtime costs associated with current staffing levels, while other members acknowledged the necessity of prioritizing fire department staffing amid broader budget considerations.

In a show of solidarity, representatives from the local firefighters' union voiced their support for the chief's request, underscoring the critical need for additional personnel to ensure the safety of both the community and the firefighters themselves. The union's letter highlighted the evolution of emergency services in Stow and the challenges posed by an outdated staffing model.

As the meeting concluded, the council was poised to make a decision on the proposed staffing increase, recognizing that the safety and well-being of Stow residents depend on a responsive and adequately staffed fire department. The outcome of this request could set a precedent for future staffing needs as the city continues to grow and evolve.