(The Center Square) – The City of Tacoma passed its 2025-2026 budget with additional funding to the fire department in order to help with overtime use.
The $4.7 billion budget cuts a $24 million structural deficit down to roughly $15 million, according to Tacoma Mayor Victoria Woodards.
Despite a lingering budget gap, the city council approved an amendment that adds $2.5 million to the Tacoma Fire Department [TFD]. However, Tacoma City Councilmember Joe Bushnell notes that the additional funding comes from cash reserves and does not add to the structural deficit.
The $2.5 million will be used by the fire chief to maintain staffing and allow for flexibility to prevent “brown outs,” in which fire stations close, leading to slower response times and greater stress on firefighters.
The additional funding comes after a flood of public support for the fire department’s proposed 2025-2026 budget eliminates 16 rover positions in order to save $4.2 million needed to meet the city’s budget reduction target.