The Los Angeles Board of Fire Commissioners has advanced a preliminary budget request of $199.3 million for the fiscal year 2026-27. This budget aims to enhance staffing, training, and resources necessary for emergency preparedness and response, particularly as the city prepares for potential wildfires and significant global events.
In a unanimous decision made on Tuesday, commissioners approved a detailed report outlining high-priority funding needs for the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD). The proposal now awaits approval from Mayor Karen Bass and her administration. Any approved requests will require a formal submission to proceed. City departments are expected to submit their finalized budget requests by November 21, as part of the early assessment for the mayor’s proposed budget, which will take effect on July 1, 2026.
The LAFD’s report reveals that the department has identified operational requirements totaling $75.7 million and non-departmental requests amounting to $123.6 million. Among the key priorities is the recruitment of new personnel, which includes funding for two new academy classes and the continuation of one current class. This initiative aims to replace 179 firefighters expected to leave the force due to attrition.
In addition, officials are advocating for the restoration of emergency incident technician roles and the creation of new positions to bolster emergency response efforts at Los Angeles International Airport, as well as enhancements in hazardous materials management and dispatch services. Given the increasing volume of medical emergency calls, the department is also seeking additional ambulance resources and the establishment of 24/7 operational supervision at field offices.
As the city looks back on the wildfires from January, LAFD officials emphasize the necessity for funds dedicated to wildfire mitigation efforts. The budget will support the formation of a second wildland paid hand crew, inspections of brush clearance, and continued funding for helitanker services. The funds will also facilitate crucial inspections and plans for rebuilding in the Palisades area.
Technology improvements are also a crucial aspect of the proposed budget. The LAFD plans to request additional resources from the Capital and Technology Improvement Expenditure Program to enhance facility maintenance and upgrade its vehicle fleet.
The LAFD report notes, “In view of those pending decisions, LAFD is also unable to project budget changes from the FY 2025-26 Adopted Budget of $897.8 million at this time, which would also include obligatory changes, the cost of continuing services and expenses, and one-time adjustments. Full budget costs will be reported when this matter returns to the commission for final proposed budget approval.”
This structured approach aims to ensure that the LAFD is adequately equipped to handle emergencies effectively, while also addressing the ongoing challenges posed by increasing demands on its services.
