Sarnia's fire chief says the elimination of four firefighter positions through attrition does not compromise public safety or firefighter safety.
It's been reported publicly that city council decided in closed session earlier this month to make the cuts that will save about $525,000 a year when they take effect in a couple of years.
Chief John Kingyens says the current rosters on each platoon will fall from 29 to 28 but the minimum staffing level of 23 on duty at five stations will be maintained.
He adds 15 firefighters on scene from three stations will be maintained as well as the current running assignment of two crews of four firefighters on standby at two stations to maintain depth of response.
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Matt Madere, president of the Sarnia Professional Firefighters Association, however, says the service standard set eight years ago by city council is being cut. Reaching 15 firefighters in eight minutes could result in manpower on scene having to wait for additional responses, says Madere.
He adds the cuts undermine what's been a good relationship between the city and its firefighters.
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Mayor Mike Bradley says the matter was considered in closed session October 5 and has just been reported publicly.
He does not support what he calls a major service cut done behind closed doors.
With files from Stephanie Chaves and Lee Michaels.