Voters will determine whether members of the Leander Fire Department gain civil service status.

Leander City Council unanimously agreed Feb. 28 to include a provision on the May ballot that, if successful, would allow firefighters to switch from city employees to civil servants.

Civil service rules establish standards within fire and police departments for sick and vacation time and for the hiring, firing and promotion of employees. Voters can adopt civil service with a simple majority.

The initiative, spearheaded by the Leander Professional Firefighters Association, officially was set into motion Feb. 15 when a petition with 137 signatures—more than the 123 necessary—was submitted to Leander City Hall.

City Manager Kent Cagle said enough signatures were verified to make the petition authentic.

"They met all requirements, so it's the duty of the council to call this election," said Cagle, who has previously voiced opposition to the civil service proposal.

The wording of the ordinance drew questions from council members. The petition suggests civil service status would be adopted for both firefighters and police officers, but Cagle ensured council the vote would only apply to the Leander Fire Department.

Mayor Chris Fielder then reminded council members that a vote in favor of the ordinance did not represent a show of support for civil service in Leander. Fielder then made the motion, which was seconded and agreed upon unanimously. Councilman David Siebold and Councilwoman Kirsten Lynch were absent for the special meeting.

The initiative will appear on the May 11 ballot.