(GDN) — The City of Goldsboro makes an attempt to hang on to its firefighting brigade. 

This week, the city council signed off on a plan to provide retention pay for the Goldsboro Fire Department. 

Goldsboro Fire Chief Ron Stempien explained the need for the 5% pay increase for firefighters and engineers.

Stempien says other fire departments are benefiting from the training the firefighters receive in Goldsboro.

Currently, 46% of the GFD has less than five years of experience.

Chief Stempien says the individuals leaving overwhelmingly say they’re frustrated with inadequate salaries and lack of plans to advance in their pay rates.

Councilman Taj Polack says it’s vital to retain the GFD’s members, who are trained in areas including swift water rescue, high-angle rescue, and search and rescue .

To cover the pay increase, the GFD is putting a temporary freeze on hiring for three vacant full-time positions within the department.