LA Fire Department Budget Cuts Amid Wildfires Spark Controversy

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — Mayor Karen Bass‘s proposed 2.7% reduction in spending for the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) has sparked controversy as wildfires rage across the region. The $23 million in cuts, unveiled in April 2024, were intended to reduce equipment purchases, but the department’s budget ultimately grew by over 7% after pay raises and additional funding were approved.

The debate over fire department spending intensified following the devastating Pacific Palisades wildfire, which has destroyed large areas of Altadena. Critics, including high-profile figures like Elon Musk and Dr. Patrick Soon-Shiong, have accused the city of underfunding the LAFD. Bass, however, has defended her budget, stating that funding for firefighter raises was allocated separately and that overall spending on the department has increased.

Fire Chief Kristin Crowley acknowledged that budget reductions have impacted core functions, including payroll, community education programs, and wildfire preparedness. A $7 million cut to overtime staffing hours has limited the department’s ability to train, inspect brush clearance, and respond to large-scale emergencies. Despite these challenges, city officials maintain that the cuts did not hinder the LAFD’s response to the Palisades fire.

City Administrative Officer Matt Szabo noted that the fire department’s budget is expected to reach $963 million, a 9% increase from the previous year. This includes $53 million for firefighter raises and $27 million for MediCal patient transportation services. However, the department has already begun overspending its budget due to overtime costs and other expenditures.

Freddy Escobar, president of the United Firefighters of Los Angeles City, expressed concern over the department’s ability to meet public safety needs. “The fire chief does not have the money to staff the resources that are needed,” he said. Meanwhile, watchdog groups warn that the city’s budget crunch will worsen as overtime costs from the wildfires and citywide pay increases take effect.

As the wildfires continue to burn, the debate over LAFD funding highlights the challenges of balancing public safety needs with fiscal responsibility in a city facing increasing wildfire risks.