In an effort to enhance diversification at the fire department, the personnel board on Wednesday voted to set aside the so-called “rule of three” to allow the fire chief to choose from a broader list of qualified candidates.
Following some strong opinions voiced by residents in opposition, however, the board tabled a separate request from Mayor Daryl Justin Finizio for authorization to hire as a probationary recruit a New London resident who had worked with the fire department but who did not make it onto the eligibility list.
It appears that agenda item was tabled because of the controversy it had elicited prior to the meeting, though Finizio was not at Wednesday’s meeting to explain.
Many in attendance, often interrupting the meeting, said they were in favor of hiring more minorities but argued that circumventing the process to hire a certain individual would invite a lawsuit.
“It’s just patently unfair to other people who went through the process,” said Vivian Stanley. “I think the best and most qualified candidates make the best employees.”