The request, which would bolster the department's strained finances, comes as volunteer firefighter ranks continue to shrink across the region and the country. Department officials say the added staffing is needed to maintain reliable emergency response as paid crews absorb more of the workload once handled by volunteers.

The department operates six stations serving Lower Merion Township, a populous and geographically diverse municipality in Montgomery County. Officials did not specify the total dollar amount requested or the timeline for hiring, but said the funds would be used both to add the fourth full-time firefighter at each station and to stabilize the department's budget.

The proposal is expected to be considered by township officials as part of the municipal budget process. Supporters argue that investing in full-time staffing is a matter of public safety, particularly as development and traffic increase the demand for emergency services.

The decline in volunteerism has been a growing concern for fire departments nationwide, many of which have shifted toward paid or combination staffing models. Lower Merion's request reflects that broader trend, with officials saying the department must adapt to ensure adequate coverage.

Township officials have not yet publicly commented on the request. The department's push for more funding is likely to be weighed against other municipal priorities in the coming months.