LOS ANGELES, CA — In a 13-0 vote, the Los Angeles City Council Wednesday authorized a transfer of $20 million to cover a projected deficit in the sworn overtime account for firefighters.
The council approved a motion introduced by member John Lee in September. The overspending was attributed to the department's deployments to out-of-city wildfires, pre-position activity, member recalls and fire prevention safety watch at special events.
Some of these activities are expected to be reimbursed through the California Office of Emergency Services, Cal Fire and other responsible agencies.
In July and August alone, there were 17 Los Angeles Fire Department deployments due to severe brush fire season in Western states, according to Lee's motion.
The use of recalls is an emergency staffing measure to mitigate resource closures throughout the 106 fire stations. Recalls have been important in filling station posts through staffing shortages in the fire department.
Lee also explained that fire safety watch is a critical element for public gatherings and is also expected to be reimbursed by event organizers.
"At the rate of current expenditures, the sworn overtime account is poised to be depleted as early as the September 2, 2026 payroll date," according to the motion. "This is well in advance of the First Financial Status Report which is not expected to reach City Council until early November 2026."
While the council approved the transfer, it still requires support from Mayor Karen Bass.
Council members Traci Park and Imelda Padilla were absent during Wednesday's vote.
City News Service
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