(a) All applicants for position with the Fire Department, except for the position of Chief Engineer, shall file with the Chief Engineer an application in writing on forms approved by the Chief Engineer, and shall be examined in such manner as he or she may prescribe, with the approval of the Mayor. A public record of all applicants for positions on the Fire Department shall be maintained in the City Clerk's office.

(b) The Chief Engineer shall, as the needs of the City may require, appoint from said applicants sufficient number of firemen to insure the public safety and protection. The number of regular firemen appointed shall not exceed the maximum number set forth in the City ordinance, except by specific approval by the Board of Aldermen. Within one year of the date of permanent appointment, each regular fireman must reside within a five mile radius of the station house to which he or she is assigned.

(c) All members of the regular Fire Department now serving or who shall hereafter be appointed, other than the Chief, shall be retained as such, unless discharged in accordance with other provisions of this charter. All members of the regular Fire Department shall retire not later than at the age of 65.