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San Jose Firefighters Press for Investment in Essential Services

On April 2, 2025, a significant event unfolded in San Jose as city workers and union members, including IFPTE Local 21, MEF-AFSCME Local 101, and San Jose Firefighters IAFF Local 230, convened for a press conference at the long-closed Station 33. This gathering served as a poignant reminder of the severe implications of disinvestment in public services.

The press conference was organized in response to alarming budget cuts proposed by the city manager, combined with a hiring freeze that has left many critical positions vacant. Fire Captain Jerry May and his colleagues passionately highlighted the pressing urgency of investing in the city's essential services. “Today, we stand united because the future of San Jose depends on adequate funding for vital services,” stated May, emphasizing the impact of disinvestment on both the community and the workforce.

According to recent data from the city, the General Fund currently reflects a staggering $80.6 million in vacancy savings. These savings are primarily attributed to an extended hiring freeze that has led to approximately $7.1 million being unutilized for essential public service roles. Furthermore, the city can potentially acquire an additional $9.4 million by liquidating unnecessary and outdated encumbrances.

However, amidst these financial figures, the firefighters articulated a clear message: the city must prioritize the preservation of public services over job cuts and reduced staffing. They insisted on exploring alternative budget-saving strategies before resorting to layoffs, which could jeopardize critical fire services.

San Jose Fire Station 33, which opened its doors in November 2007 but was shut down on February 25, 2011, serves as a powerful symbol of the detrimental effects of financial cutbacks. This once-busy hub of activity and community safety now stands empty, a stark reminder of the consequences faced when investments in public services diminish.

“Failing to invest in our public safety is not just a financial decision; it has real-world consequences for the citizens we serve,” said May. This rallying cry comes at a time when community members are depending more than ever on local services—from emergency response to library resources—to support their daily lives.

The San Jose For Us Coalition, made up of the involved labor unions, has set forth a strong demand: city officials must take necessary steps to evaluate and reform budget management practices rather than push for reductions in essential personnel resources.

Moreover, the fire department and other public service workers, such as those in libraries, city parks, and recreational facilities, underscored the need for accurate accounting of vacancy rates and expenditures. By properly managing these resources and moving away from costly private contracts, the city could bridge its budgetary gaps without sacrificing the livelihoods of its workers or the safety of its residents.

Throughout the press conference, the unwavering spirit of the firefighters was evident. Their call to action resonates beyond immediate concerns about unemployment; it raises critical questions about the values placed on public service personnel and the necessity of supporting essential services within the community.

As discussions surrounding the city’s budget continue, the voice of the San Jose Firefighters and the numerous public service providers stand firmly resolved. They represent the frontline of defense not just against firefighting but also against the growing challenges posed by economic disinvestment.

San Jose’s future hangs in the balance, calling for both the city government and citizens to rally around their public safety providers, ensuring that funding meets the needs of the community rather than the shallow demands of austerity. Only through this collective effort can the city aim towards rekindling the spirit of service and protection that residents deserve.