City Council:
AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING A
ONE-YEAR LEAVE OF ABSENCE FOR FIRE
INSPECTOR TAJ BRIDGERS TO SERVE AS A
PROBATIONARY FIREFIGHTER AND PROVIDING
FOR A PROVISIONAL APPOINTMENT TO
THE VACANT FIRE INSPECTOR POSITION
Whereas, in correspondence dated September 15, 2025, the Commissioner of the Fire Department formally requested authorization for a one-year leave of absence for Fire Inspector Taj Bridgers, effective August 27, 2025, through August 27, 2026, to permit him to serve as a probationary firefighter in the Mount Vernon Fire Department; and
Whereas, the City Council of the City of Mount Vernon recognizes the importance of maintaining adequate staffing levels within the Fire Department to ensure the safety and welfare of the public; and
Whereas, Fire Inspector Taj Bridgers has formally requested a one-year leave of absence from his current position to serve as a probationary firefighter within the Mount Vernon Fire Department; and
Whereas, such leave of absence is scheduled to commence on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, and conclude on Wednesday, August 27, 2026; and
Whereas, the City of Mount Vernon intends to provisionally fill the Fire Inspector position during the period of leave until the City of Mount Vernon Civil Service Commission establishes an eligible list for permanent appointment; and
Whereas, the City Council finds that granting this leave of absence is in the best interest of the Fire Department and the community it serves; Now, Therefore, Be It Resolved That
The City of Mount Vernon, in City Council convened, does hereby ordain and enact
Section 1. Authorization of Leave of Absence. The City Council hereby authorizes a one-year leave of absence for Fire Inspector Taj Bridgers, effective August 27, 2025, through August 27, 2026, to permit him to serve as a probationary firefighter in the Mount Vernon Fire Department.
Section 2. Provisional Appointment to Vacant Position. The vacant Fire Inspector position shall be provisionally filled for the duration of the leave, subject to all applicable Civil Service regulations and procedures, until the City of Mount Vernon Civil Service Commission establishes a certified list of candidates for permanent appointment.
Section 3. Administrative Authority. The Mayor, Fire Commissioner, and appropriate City officials are hereby authorized and directed to take all necessary actions to implement the provisions of this ordinance, including executing any required documentation.
Section 4. Effective Date. This ordinance shall take effect immediately upon its adoption and approval by the City Council and in accordance with the City Charter.