On Monday, eleven new firefighters were sworn in and began their career with the City of Champaign. Following Council’s approval of two Bills earlier this year, the Fire Department was able to surge hire and begin the training of the new firefighters to fill anticipated vacancies within the Department. This surge hire also helps the Fire Department employ candidates who placed high on the eligibility list before they are offered other positions in this highly competitive job market. Six firefighters will be attending the spring fire academy and five will be beginning shift next week.