Los Angeles Fire Chief Kristin Crowley has expressed concerns over the impact of a $17 million budget cut on the department's ability to combat wildfires in the county. The budget reduction has resulted in over 100 fire apparatus being out of service, as civilian positions like mechanics were eliminated, hindering the repair of equipment.
Crowley has made multiple requests for interim budgets to demonstrate the LAFD's understaffed, under-resourced, and underfunded status. Data presented by the fire chief indicates a need for 62 additional fire stations to meet the growing demands on the agency, which has experienced a 55% increase in call volume since 2010 despite having fewer firefighters.
While additional resources are being allocated to address the current wildfire crisis, Crowley emphasizes the importance of sustained funding and support for the LAFD to effectively respond to emergencies across Los Angeles. The fire chief warns that without adequate resources, the city remains vulnerable to potential disasters that require a fully equipped and staffed fire department.
