Mayor's proposed budget preserves SFFD staffing but flags equipment, supplies and facility needs

Deputy Director Mark Corso presented a high‑level review of the mayor's proposed FY24‑25 budget for the San Francisco Fire Department at the June 14 commission meeting, describing a budget "over $500,000,000" that maintains existing frontline staffing levels and includes no newly funded positions or initiatives.

Corso said the largest dollar changes reflected pay‑and‑benefit (MOU) adjustments and line‑item increases for materials and supplies (about $2.5 million) and equipment (an allocation increase to $4.5 million). The department also identified additional one‑time and ongoing revenue through EMS billing and a state reimbursement program. He cautioned the commission the department remains heavily reliant on general‑fund support and that approximately 90% of the budget is salary and fringe, which limits flexibility for other needs.

Commissioners asked about alternative funding sources and the $60.5 million listed under "charges for services." Corso explained that charges for services primarily reflect ambulance transport billing (billed to patients and insurers) and fire prevention fees (permits and plan review). He also described steps the department is taking on deferred maintenance, equipment replacement, idle‑mitigation policy work and potential FEMA reimbursement for storm damage. Corso noted upcoming budget hearings with the board's Budget & Finance Committee and an expected adoption window in late July or early August.

The commission did not take a vote on the budget at the meeting. Corso said department staff and the chief will continue meetings with board members and the mayor's budget office as the legislative review proceeds.