Firefighters demand fair pay amid rising living costs

During a recent Santa Maria city council meeting, significant concerns were raised regarding the ongoing contract negotiations between the city and its firefighters, as well as the broader implications of rising living costs for public safety personnel.

Scott Gramson, a resident, highlighted the unfairness of a proposed moratorium on the conversion of a senior mobile home park, advocating for protective measures similar to those enacted in Ventura County. He also called for transparency in the stalled negotiations over the firefighters' contract, which has been at an impasse for over four months. Gramson urged city officials to clarify the lack of mediation and the steps needed to reach a compromise.

Andrew Klein, a member of the Santa Maria Firefighters Local 2020, echoed these sentiments, sharing personal anecdotes from firefighters struggling to afford basic living expenses amid rising housing costs. He noted that the average home price in Santa Maria has surged to $620,000, with rents averaging $2,300 per month—figures that are increasingly unaffordable for many city employees. Klein criticized the city for prioritizing budget savings over fair compensation for firefighters, who have not received a cost-of-living increase in over 585 days and have been without a contract for 235 days.

Klein emphasized the critical nature of the firefighters' work, stating that their primary focus is saving lives and protecting property, yet they feel undervalued and ignored by city leadership. He called for a reevaluation of the city's priorities, urging officials to treat firefighters with the respect and fairness they deserve.

The discussions at the meeting reflect growing tensions between city management and public safety employees, as rising living costs and stagnant wages continue to challenge the financial stability of those who serve the community.