LA Mayor cuts firefighting money after big worker raises


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Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass faced intense criticism for implementing significant budget cuts to the city’s fire department after granting substantial wage increases to municipal employees.

The City Journal highlighted the concerning nature of these budget decisions, particularly given the city’s declining financial situation. These reductions came in the wake of the administration’s choice to provide city workers with generous compensation packages, despite concerns about service delivery capabilities.

Upon assuming office, Bass initiated negotiations with public sector unions regarding expiring contracts. The discussions culminated in agreements with numerous unions representing civilian city employees, securing wage increases ranging from 20 to 25 percent over a five-year period. The arrangements boosted the minimum hourly wage for city employees from $20 to $25 and included substantial benefits, such as the ability to receive full compensation for unused sick time upon retirement – a benefit rarely seen in private sector employment. According to the city’s administrative officer, these agreements would cost Los Angeles $3.5 billion throughout the contract period, with an additional $1 billion projected for police union agreements.

During a critical period when devastating fires ravaged Los Angeles, destroying properties and claiming lives, Bass was notably absent, traveling in Ghana. Her administration had reduced the fire services budget by nearly $20 million for the current fiscal year.

The fires have now consumed 39,622 acres, with firefighters working tirelessly to combat the blazes amidst challenging conditions.

The situation has sparked significant public outrage, leading to a recall effort against Bass. The petition has gained considerable momentum, accumulating 93,328 signatures as of Sunday.