CHICO, Calif. - The Chico Fire Department might soon see a boost in resources at Station 1 on Salem Street. The potential addition of an extra engine and crew could enhance services in the downtown area.

Chief Steve Standridge has been advocating for this addition, citing population growth and increased call volumes since 2008. He has communicated the need to councilmembers and the city manager.

Standridge explained that adding six firefighters to create an additional floating position would help maintain staffing levels.

He noted that the department has averaged 3.73 people off each day over the past four years. Standridge said the additional positions would offset overtime costs. "We virtually pay for that firefighter because we bring in those firefighters and they're at a lower rate

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