An informational meeting for persons interested in becoming a volunteer firefighter for the City of Shelby drew about 15 potential candidates, Thursday night.  The meeting was held at the Shelby City Hall. The Daily NonPareil reports Greg Martin, a former firefighter with the department was one of those who signed-up. Martin, who served on the department for six-years, said he had to quit because of his regular job. He said the work firefighters do to save property…including his own at one point in time… is one reason he wanted to come back to the force.

Before the meeting, Mayor Pro Tem Bob Richmond said he hopes the department can be rebuilt soon. He said he had talked to several people who expressed an interest in serving. The city is recruiting volunteers to fill the department’s needs because the Shelby City Council fired all 12 firefighters Monday evening, and Fire Chief Eric Wendt resigned Wednesday morning. The firings were the result of a dispute between the council and department over funds the department raises.