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City of Seattle
Gregory J. Nickels, Mayor
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NEWS ADVISORY
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| SUBJECT: Mayor Announces Proposed Budget Reductions for Police and Fire
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
8/27/2002 3:08:00 PM |
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
Office of the Mayor (206) 684-4000
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Mayor Announces Proposed Budget Reductions
for Police and Fire
No layoffs of sworn police officers and firefighters
Seattle – Mayor Greg Nickels today announced preliminary decisions for next year’s police and fire department budgets that avoid layoffs of sworn police officers and firefighters and avoid closure of fire stations or police facilities.
Under the proposals, sworn police positions and firefighter positions would be reduced but layoffs will be avoided because of expected attrition and retirements.
As he prepares his 2003-2004 budget proposal, the mayor is closing a projected revenue gap of up to $60 million dollars. The mayor has said he would cut overhead first and basic services last. Police and Fire protection are critical basic services, the mayor has said.
"Public safety is among the most essential basic services the city can provide. We’ve got to operate leaner and more efficiently but it won’t be at the expense of the safety of our citizens," said Nickels.
The Seattle Fire Department would reduce eight 24-hour firefighter positions, which are staffed by 33 firefighters. The department would also reduce one management job staffed by a firefighter for a total reduction of 34 firefighter jobs. Existing vacancies will offset the need for layoffs.
"Our goal is to continue to deliver life-saving, professional fire and medical services," said Seattle Fire Chief Gary Morris. "The mayor’s strategy supports protecting the public and will result in continued excellent service to our community."
In the Seattle Police Department, as many as 27 sworn positions would be reduced, including officers, supervisors, and a command position. No layoffs of sworn staff are expected due to attrition and employee retirements. A number of sworn positions would be redeployed to strengthen and preserve basic police service throughout Seattle neighborhoods.
"Our commitment to public safety and protecting people and property, responding to calls, and investigating crimes will not be compromised," said Seattle Police Chief Gil Kerlikowske.
For more information, visit the mayor’s web site at www.cityofseattle.net/mayor.
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Mayor's Office
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