On Nov. 10th, 2009, the citizens of the City of Piedmont will have an opportunity to approve an one cent sales tax increase.  This increase will generate revenue to go specifically toward the City of Piedmont Fire Department. The Fire Department has requested that this funding go towards the transition from a 100% volunteer fire department, to a combination paid/volunteer fire department. The plan that was submitted to the the City of Piedmont City Council is as follows:

Over the next three (3) years, two (2) firefighters will be available to respond to fire and medical emergencies, working rotating shifts at least 40 hours per week. Our volunteer firefighters will participate on an "on call" system to be available for fire and medical emergencies as well, which they will be compensated for. Our goal is to have personnel available to respond to fire and medical emergencies at all times of the day and night. Within the next 36 to 40 months, the fire department hopes to hire 6 full time firefighters. These firefighters would work 24 hours shifts, with 2 firefighters being on duty at all times. These firefighters would be supplemented with our volunteer staff. This would be the starting point, with rapid growth expected to keep up with the growth of the city and demands for service.