East Manatee Fire Rescue commissioners passed a five-year plan Nov. 22 that focuses on the infrastructure needed to accommodate additional firefighters.
The department is planning for expansion of its personnel to deal with the area's rapid growth.
The five-year plan also recommends adding an Advanced Life Support program.
“Chief (Lee Whitehurst) and staff did a heck of a job,” Fire Commissioner Derek Foss said of putting together the plan. “We’ve got a plan to expand, and hire more people, and (Advanced Life Support) is in there as well.”
Advanced Life Support refers to adding equipment and paramedic-certified firefighters, who can offer care beyond what regular firefighters can provide.
Whitehurst was pleased that commissioners showed unanimous support of the plan. He noted the plan is not a fixed path for the department, but a guide which the board has the ability to revise moving forward, if needed.