It was a close one, but the Duluth City Council passed a resolution asking the city to allow firefighters to participate in the 'Fill the Boot' fundraiser while on duty.
The event is held annually and raises money for the Muscular Dystrophy Association. Firefighters say if they participate on the clock, they're able to raise more money. Spokespeople say the activity does not interfere with the department's daily duties.
Controversy from the event brewed last year when Councilor Todd Fedora brought up concerns about firefighters participating in the fundraiser while they're on the clock.
On Monday, some councilors brought up a provision in employee conduct rules which says: 'employees of the City shall not use city time, equipment, supplies, buildings or other property for anything other than official city business, unless such use is permitted under a collective bargaining agreement.'
The Muscular Dystrophy Association says the efforts of fire departments are important to the fundraiser.
"People want to give, they just can't give the big check...anymore, but they're happy to give and give the dollar to the firefighters," said Chris Zupfer of the Muscular Dystrophy Association. "It's a great community event that's held over 800 cities nationwide."
Last week, Fire Chief John Strongitharm told the Northland's News Center that he only wanted his employees to participate in the fundraiser if they were 'off-duty.'
Attempts to reach Strongitharm after Monday's council meeting were unsuccessful.
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