Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass recently addressed concerns regarding budget cuts impacting the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) amidst the ongoing wildfires in the city and surrounding county. Despite a report from the city's fire chief highlighting the funding deficit's negative effects on core operations, Mayor Bass expressed confidence that the department's response capabilities remained intact.
In June, a budget of nearly $13 billion was approved, including a $17,471,845 reduction in the LAFD budget. The city's fire chief, Kristin Crowley, emphasized in a report that these cuts had hindered critical operations such as training, technology infrastructure, payroll processing, and fire prevention efforts.
Chief Crowley specifically pointed out the impact of a $7 million reduction in Overtime Variable Staffing Hours (V-Hours), which limited the department's preparedness for large-scale emergencies like wildfires, earthquakes, and hazardous material incidents. The department also faced challenges in conducting essential brush clearance and fire safety compliance inspections.
Notably, the budget shortfall significantly affected the Disaster Response Section, responsible for managing heavy equipment during disasters. The report highlighted the importance of funding for services like fire control lines, firefighting robotics, and post-fire emergency support.
During a news conference, Mayor Bass assured that the LAFD had managed to recover the funds within the fiscal year, surpassing the allocated budget. A fire department spokesperson emphasized the ongoing need for additional resources to effectively respond to emergencies and maintain public safety.
Despite the budgetary constraints, the LAFD remains committed to requesting necessary resources to enhance its emergency response capabilities and ensure the safety of the community.
