That the Somerville City Council reaffirm its opposition to lateral hires in the Fire Department.

WHEREAS: The Somerville City Council voted unanimously to oppose lateral hires from outside of the city for the Somerville Fire Department on April 25, 2024; and WHEREAS: The City of Somerville plans on continuing the process of lateral hires despite this unanimous objection; and WHEREAS: The City of Somerville stated that outside candidates for lateral hires will need to receive approval from their current employer prior to any interview hiring process in the City of Somerville; and WHEREAS: Approval of firefighter hires by the Somerville City Council is the final step in the hiring process; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED: That the Somerville City Council reaffirm its opposition to lateral hires in the Fire Department; AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED: That a copy of this resolution be sent to every city in Massachusetts that utilizes Civil Service lists to make their firefighters and management aware of the Somerville City Council’s position and the City’s hiring process; AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED: That the City Council implore the Mayor’s office to not proceed with lateral hires and give Somerville residents who took the firefighter exam in good faith an opportunity to serve their city.