Fire Department requests $14.6M for overtime amid COVID staffing challenges

The San Francisco County government meeting held on July 4, 2025, focused on the ongoing challenges faced by the fire department, primarily due to the impacts of COVID-19. Chief O'Connor opened the session by outlining the significant operational and staffing difficulties that have arisen since the pandemic began. He noted a substantial number of retirements and separations, which have not been adequately backfilled, leading to critical personnel shortages.

The fire department has experienced increased use of leave due to COVID-related illnesses and quarantines, resulting in mandatory overtime for many firefighters. Chief O'Connor expressed optimism about the department's recovery, highlighting ongoing training classes and a plan to stabilize staffing levels by late summer. He acknowledged the support from the mayor's office in addressing these staffing issues.

Mark Corso, from the finance and planning division of the fire department, presented a request for a supplemental appropriation of $14.6 million to help balance the department's budget for the current fiscal year. This request is aimed at covering the projected overspending due to the increased overtime costs associated with staffing shortages. Corso explained that the department had seen approximately 200 uniform separations since March 2020, far exceeding the normal turnover rate of about 60 to 70 per year.

The budget and legislative analysts confirmed that the proposed ordinance would draw from the general reserve and noted that even with this appropriation, the fire department could still face a projected overspending of up to $14.7 million. They recommended approval of the ordinance to prevent service reductions.

During the meeting, supervisors raised questions about the nature of the overtime and the department's staffing strategies. Chief O'Connor explained that while there is a voluntary list for overtime, mandatory shifts are also assigned when necessary. He emphasized the exhaustion felt by the department's members due to the pandemic's toll.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue discussions with the mayor's office to ensure adequate staffing and support for the fire department as they navigate the ongoing challenges posed by COVID-19. The department is actively working on hiring initiatives, including three firefighter academies planned for the current calendar year, to address the staffing deficit and improve operational capacity.