After Rehiring 12 Laid-Off Firefighters, Orange swears in the first two of the additional 12 firefighters hired under federal grant

Mayor Eldridge Hawkins, Jr. today swore in the first two of 12 new firefighters hired under a federal SAFER grant from FEMA. In March, 12 laid-off firefighters were rehired as a result of work rule changes negotiated with the firefighters union.

The two new firefighters, Robert Glassman and Daniel Hessler, were hired under legislation sponsored by Senator Ron Rice D-Newark that expedites the hiring of firefighters with previous training and firefighting experience. The remaining 10 firefighters to be hired under the SAFER grant are presently attending the Fire Academy.

Statement by Mayor Eldridge Hawkins, Jr.
“When all 12 new firefighters are hired, the Orange firefighting force will have increased by 50% and the Fire Department will be much closer to full strength. Today’s hiring is the fruit of the agreement negotiated with the Orange firefighters in March. I again thank the Firefighters Mutual Benevolent Association Local 10 (FMBA) and Senators Frank Lautenberg and Robert Menendez as well as Congressman Donald M. Payne for making this day possible. We recognize that the SAFER is for two years only, but it buys the time we need to seek new revenues and management efficiencies that will enable us to keep the Orange Fire Department adequately staffed.”

Statement by Robert Manganelli, Orange Fire Chief
“I would like thank the Mayor for supporting the hiring of these two fine firefighters off the RICE Bill. They will both be a great addition to our department. Having these experienced men will allow us to install them directly into a Tour without the nine weeks of training.  Both firefighters are fully trained, and come to us with a wealth of fire experience”.

 

Mayor swears in new firefighters