MAYOR THOMAS SWEARS-IN EIGHT NEW MOUNT VERNON FIREFIGHTERS

(Thursday, April 19, 2018) — Earlier today, Mayor Richard Thomas and the Mount Vernon Fire Department held a swearing-in ceremony at the Doles Center for eight new recruits. The new recruits are Alonzo K. Jenkins, Kenmarr A. McIntosh, Jarren M. Gooden, Wayne V. Cowans, Frankie Fata, James EP Cumberland, Christopher H. Smith, and Terrell M. Walker.

The candidates were sworn-in by Mayor Richard Thomas as part of keeping his promise to the Police and Fire Departments to keep them at full staff, and fill any vacancies as quickly as possible.

“Keeping our city safe continues to be my top priority,” said Mayor Thomas. “Our brave men and women of the Mount Vernon Fire Department put their lives on the line every day to protect the residents and businesses of our city. I will continue to keep my promise to both Police and Fire that I will keep their ranks fully staffed.”

Fire Union President Kevin Holt spoke about the incredibly high demand on the Mount Vernon Fire Department. In 2015, the department responded to 11,500 calls; in 2016, it responded to 11,300 calls; and in 2017 it was 11,100 calls. In all, the department responded to about 34,000 calls in three years and averaged 40 structure fire per year.

“As of today, including this class, this is 31 new firefighters that we have hired in two years,” said Holt. “What has [Mayor Thomas] done? Training is at an all-time high. Our firefighters are more prepared, they’re sharp, and when they respond they’re ready. What has he done? Well I can tell you, he’s kept his word to the fire union.”

The recruits will now go through 10–12 weeks of training at the Mount Vernon Firefighter Academy at Station 3.