New Bedford plans to implement austerity measures, potentially resulting in 'browning out' fire stations following cuts to the fire department's overtime budget. The city council reduced the department's proposed budget by approximately $300,000 from Mayor Jonathan Mitchell's $22.9 million request, impacting crucial areas like mandatory testing for safety equipment. Staffing concerns have arisen after a deadly fire in neighboring Fall River that left ten people dead, highlighting the need for adequate fire department resources and preparedness in Massachusetts.
New Bedford is considering 'browning out' fire stations due to budget cuts, despite neighboring Fall River facing severe consequences from a recent deadly fire. Austerity measures were announced by Mayor Jonathan Mitchell after the City Council cut approximately $300,000 from the fire department's overtime budget. Cuts also affected the budget for mandatory testing of breathing air cylinders and replacement radio batteries, summing to over $315,000. Only a few Massachusetts communities consistently meet national staffing standards for fire departments, raising concerns about public safety.
New Bedford's fire department budget cuts will lead to potential 'browning out' of stations, decreasing response readiness. The mayor proposed a $22.9 million budget for increased funding but faced a council cut of $300,000, impacting overtime and essential safety measures. The cuts come amid scrutiny of fire department staffing after a tragic fire in Fall River that resulted in ten fatalities, emphasizing the dire consequences of inadequate funding and staffing levels.
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