Fire Department Overtime and Staffing Economics
Summary
Fire overtime is projected around $3.2 million this year, down from $4-5 million, thanks to hiring toward a 190-sworn goal — though the department is 13 short today and needs about $100,000 more this year beyond $1.5 million already encumbered. A 48/96 schedule trial with health tracking runs through July 2027.
At a glance
- Total mentions
- 2
- Last 30 days
- 1
Discussed at 2 meetings in the last 60 days; most recently Oct 5, 2026.
Impact analysis
Council will be asked in October to free up $1.5 million in encumbered overtime dollars plus about $100,000 more.
Residents get faster fire response and firefighters get a schedule that may improve wellbeing and retention.
Firefighters working 96-hour stretches face fatigue risks the chief says he monitors closely.
Mentions & discussions (2)
City Council Meeting - Oct 5, 2026
The council approved $1.6 million more for fire overtime, sparking a deep debate on whether it's cheaper to pay overtime or hire more firefighters. Council President Snyder wants hard data on ideal staffing levels, and the chief flagged 17 retirements this year and fewer young firefighters picking up overtime.
2027 Budget Q & A with City Administration and the City Council - Sep 28, 2026
Fire overtime is projected around $3.2 million this year, down from $4-5 million, thanks to hiring toward a 190-sworn goal — though the department is 13 short today and needs about $100,000 more this year beyond $1.5 million already encumbered. A 48/96 schedule trial with health tracking runs through July 2027.
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