MASSILLON – The Massillon Fire Department is adding firefighters.

Eight people were sworn in Nov. 3, bringing the agency up to its full staffing level of 56, Fire Chief Matt Heck said.

"I think we've got a good group (coming in)," the chief said. "These eight should (also) help cut into our overtime."

Adding firefighters is a major step for the Fire Department to reduce a heavy load of overtime shifts among current firefighters, according to Heck, noting that overtime has been an issue since early 2024 .

The agency is expected to accrue more than $1 million of overtime this year, said Heck, noting that about $1.1 million was spent in 2024.

The chief said 1990 was the last time Massillon hired more than a half-dozen people at one time.

Of the eight incoming personnel, Heck sai

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