Looking for ways to control overtime pay, the county Fire Department is considering a strategy that would put paramedic and engine companies out of service at selected fire stations when manpower is needed elsewhere, according to a memorandum obtained by Capital Gazette Newspapers.

The unapproved memo from county Fire Chief J. Robert Ray was sent to county fire personnel Friday but then rescinded hours later.

The memo featured a budget and overtime reduction plan that would include a spending freeze, restrictions on carryover leave use, and limits on the number of daily overtime shifts.

Division Chief Michael Cox, a...