From the Union Leader: Alderman Jim Roy's proposal to eliminate the Manchester (N.H.) Fire Department's six district chiefs almost died before it got to committee, but a tie-breaking vote cast by Mayor Ted Gatsas will keep the proposal alive for now.

Roy, a former Manchester Fire Department captain, proposed eliminating all of the city's district fire chiefs for a savings of $1 million, which could be used to keep 15 firefighters slated for layoffs in the mayor's budget. It would also increase the minimum number of firefighters on duty each shift from 44 to 48 and ensure enough staffing for the use of all city fire trucks.

Under Gatsas' plan, 22 firefighters would be laid off on July 1, likely those who are the department's most recent hires. The layoffs would reduce the number of firefighters on duty each shift and could also reduce the number of ladder trucks available for backing up emergency calls from five trucks to three.

Roy also presented plans to reduce the number of captains and increase the number of lieutenants. The plan, which lacks the support of Fire Chief James Burkush, would bring major changes to the department's chain of command.