It's expected to be an emotional day for 14 recently laid off Hialeah firefighters when they turn in their uniforms and equipment Thursday.
The firefighters, along with nine trainees, were cut Saturday, just days after the city council approved a $263 million budget for 2012.
Council members voted 7-0 last Wednesday in favor of the plan, which will result in over 100 firefighters, or 40 percent of the force, losing their jobs.
Mayor Carlos Hernandez had warned of the cuts if the fire union couldn't agree to $4 million in concessions, to help the city close a $13 million deficit.
Major cuts will be made on Dec. 1 and March 1, when another 70 firefighters total will be dismissed.
The firefighters are expected to turn in their gear at city hall some time Thursday afternoon.
