SAN FRANCISCO (KRON) — San Francisco Mayor Ed Lee announced a new federal grant Thursday that will allocated $8.2 million to the San Francisco Fire Department for adequate fire and emergency response, facilitating the hiring of 36 additional fire fighters.
According to the Mayor’s office, the goal of the funding is to enhance the local Fire Departments’ abilities to comply with staffing, response and operational standards.
“This new Federal funding invests in the growth and success of our City,” said Mayor Lee. “With 36 new firefighters, our public safety personnel can keep our growing City safe, and at the same time prepare for emergencies and disasters. I thank FEMA for these additional resources to help San Francisco provide unparalleled fire and emergency medical services to all of our residents.”
The new hires are aimed to prepare for the large number of retirements project over the upcoming fiscal years. The funds will help the department prepare for the demands and needs of the city. The funding covers the hiring and salaries of the 36 new personnel for the next two years.
“With increased staffing requirements in recent years, including the opening of Fire Station 4 in March 2015, the San Francisco Fire Department has seen the need for additional staff to backfill vacancies,” said Fire Chief Joanne Hayes-White. “This will reduce the need for mandatory overtime and support the health and well-being of our members.”