LANSING, Mich — As emergency calls continue to climb in Lansing, the city is stepping up support for the fire department. Thanks to new allocations in the 2025–2026 city budget, relief will soon be on the way in the form of additional firefighters and upgraded facilities.
- Lansing’s 2025–2026 city budget allocates $45 million to the Fire Department, funding 3 new firefighter positions amid rising emergency call volumes.
- Call volume has doubled over the past decade, while staffing and station numbers have decreased, creating increased strain on the department.
- Chief Sturdivant says additional staff and two new fire stations will help the department better respond to growing demand and broaden specialized services.
- Recruitment for new roles begins in September, with cadet training programs set for October, and hiring ongoing for other open positions.
WATCH: “We’re excited about the future”: Lansing Fire Department expands team & services
Back in May, the Lansing City Council unanimously approved a more than $300 million budget for the upcoming fiscal year. Of that total, $45 million is earmarked for the Lansing Fire Department, including funding for three new firefighter positions.
“We vote to pass the 2025 budget or we give this much money to the fire department,” said one city council member during the budget session.For Fire Chief Brian Sturdivant, the added support couldn’t come at a better time…