Management Partners was retained by the City of Phoenix in April 2011 to conduct an innovation and efficiency study of the Fire Department. As part of the budget process for fiscal year 2010/11, the Mayor and City Council authorized staff to hire outside experts to conduct innovation and efficiency studies for all public safety‐related functions. As a result of a competitive process, Management Partners was selected to complete this study for the Fire Department. The work was guided by a seven‐ member Steering Committee consisting of City and Fire Department officials, a labor representative and a community representative.