By George P. Hassett

A new study of the city’s fire department was presented to aldermen Thursday night, detailing several weak spots in a department the study says is working adequately.

Travis Miller, Senior Vice President of the Matrix Consulting Group, gave a presentation on the results of the study. He said the department may need an assistant fire chief, a position that would cost $14,500 to add. Also, the department lacks a long range master plan and annual updates of comprehensive policies and procedures.

The study suggested a new fire station may be needed in Assembly Square. Cramped firehouses make mechanical work on fire trucks inefficient and dangerous, he said.

Miller suggested changing the overnight schedules of firefighters and cutting staffing for 911 services.