Baltimore City Council Considers $362 Million Budget for Fire Department Amid Staffing Challenges
Baltimore, MD – The Baltimore City Council’s final session on Thursday focused on a proposed $362 million budget for the Baltimore City Fire Department (BCFD) for the fiscal year 2026. This budget represents a significant 10.7% increase from last year’s allocation of $327 million.
The rise in funding aims to address staffing shortages that have led to increased overtime costs. Fire Suppression, Emergency Rescue, and Emergency Medical Services are set to receive the most substantial funding boosts, with $339 million sourced from the city’s general fund due to the removal of the EMS special fund.
The new budget also allocates nearly $8 million in federal and state grants and earmarks $5.2 million from the Opioid Restitution Fund for contracted EMS services. Chief James Wallace emphasized the importance of the budget, noting over $20 million designated for advanced “Fire Communications and Dispatch.” This investment includes cutting-edge technology like geofencing and artificial intelligence aimed at enhancing emergency responses.
City Council President Zeke Cohen raised concerns regarding BCFD’s recruiting and retention strategies, as the department is grappling with a projected $41.7 million deficit for fiscal 2025 due to staffing shortages. Chief Wallace highlighted the need for 307 daily employees but admitted the department struggles to meet this requirement, relying heavily on overtime.
"Innovative recruiting methods are essential," Wallace stated. He shared a recent experience of recruiting at a McDonald’s, underscoring the need to engage with the local community to bolster staffing.
The session underscored ongoing challenges within BCFD as city leaders and chief officers seek solutions to improve service efficiency and combat staffing gaps.*
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