BAY CITY, Mich. -- There is one open spot in the Bay City Fire Department, and it might just stay that way to save the city some money.

But once that fact was made public, some residents and laid-off firefighters said they want the position filled.

The city commission put off voting on the budget amendment at this week’s meeting due to the controversy.

Mayor Charles Brunner said there’s no simple solution.

“It’s a very tough call,” said Brunner. “I’m personally in favor of filling the spot.”

Even if the spot were to be filled at this time, it could be cut again this summer.

Commissioners will revisit the issue at their Feb. 15 meeting.