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The Chicago Tribune recently published an article discussing a potential change to the application process for becoming a firefighter in Des Plaines. Des Plaines Alderman James Brookman, representing the 5th ward, is advocating for the removal of the existing requirement that demands aspiring firefighters possess a paramedic license as part of the qualification process. During a recent Des Plaines City Council meeting, an amendment was approved that grants the city's board of fire and police commissioners the authority to establish a minimum passing score for the firefighter written exam.
Brookman, who is a former firefighter himself, seized this opportunity to voice concerns over a local ordinance that insists only those holding an active paramedic license from the Illinois Department of Public Health, or a current certification from the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians as a paramedic, can sit for the exam. He expressed frustration with what he sees as an overly restrictive policy, arguing that it drastically narrows the pool of eligible candidates. "We should be hiring the best people we can find and then train them," he emphasized.
However, Fire Chief Alan Wax countered by stating that training an applicant without a paramedic license typically costs around $60,000 per individual. Historically, the Des Plaines fire department did not always impose such stringent prerequisites. Prior to August 2006, candidates with paramedic licenses were awarded preference points during the recruitment process. State regulations permit cities to enforce this licensing prerequisite before allowing candidates to take the exam. Wax noted that many aspiring firefighters are motivated to obtain the license since it enhances their chances of success.
Despite this, Brookman remains adamant that the department could gain significantly from recruiting individuals with diverse backgrounds, even if they lack a paramedic license but bring unique skills to the table. Brookman's stance resonated with Alderman Patricia Haugeberg, chair of the public safety committee, prompting her to request further discussion with the board of fire and police commissioners. Board Commissioner Debra Lester suggested giving the board additional time to gather further data, emphasizing that this was not a straightforward matter of simply saying 'yes' or 'no'.
Following these developments, the scheduled firefighter written exam, initially planned for mid-September, has been postponed. As Brookman continues to push for reform, the debate over this requirement is likely to unfold over the coming weeks.
Thanks Dan.