CUMBERLAND, MD - State budget cuts have cost the city of Cumberland more than one million dollars.

Now city officials are considering phasing out paid firefighters and switching to an all volunteer force.

The career firefighters of local 1715 say this would hurt the community.  They are willing to take pay cuts and do whatever it takes to keep the department alive.

Local 1715 handles over 6,000 calls a year and says this could become a life or death situation for members of the community.

"This department was established in 1906.  It's weathered the Great Depression, two world wars.  The citizens of Cumberland deserve a paid fire department," says Lt. Stephen Grogg.

Starting Friday residents can voice their concerns and ideas by clicking on a link on the city's website.