Amidst devastating wildfires sweeping through Los Angeles, a December memo from LAFD Chief Kristin Crowley has resurfaced, highlighting concerns about budget cuts and their potential impact on emergency response capabilities. The memo, viewed by Fox News Digital, reveals Crowley's apprehension about the $17.6 million reduction in the LAFD's budget, approved by Mayor Karen Bass, and its potential consequences for handling large-scale emergencies like wildfires.

Crowley's memo specifically points to the elimination of essential civilian positions and a significant decrease in overtime funds, impacting crucial areas like technology infrastructure, training, fire prevention, and community outreach. The reduction in overtime pay, Crowley argues, limits the department's readiness for and response to major incidents, including wildfires, earthquakes, and hazardous material events. This includes specialized training for pilots and helicopter coordination, vital for aerial firefighting efforts.

The memo further details the cascading effects of these cuts, impacting the effectiveness of various units and teams. It was presented to the Board of Fire Commissioners, a body of mayoral appointees overseeing the LAFD, according to NBC Los Angeles. The memo raises concerns about compliance with FAA mandates, impacting pilot readiness and aerial firefighting capabilities. It also notes potential difficulties in upholding mutual aid agreements and providing air ambulance services.

Mayor Bass, who faced questions about her absence during the initial stages of the fires and the budget cuts, maintains that the reductions did not hinder the city’s response. She attributed any perceived discrepancies to timing issues in fund allocation. However, the timing of the memo, just a month before the wildfires erupted, raises questions about preparedness and resource allocation in the face of predicted operational challenges. The fires, considered one of the most destructive in Los Angeles history, have brought the issue of funding for emergency services into sharp focus.