Hollister city officials debate fire service budget cuts and staffing levels

In the heart of Hollister, city council members gathered to address pressing concerns about fire services and budget allocations during their recent meeting on March 21, 2025. The atmosphere was charged with urgency as discussions unfolded around the city's financial commitments and the implications for public safety.

At the forefront of the conversation was the staggering figure of $716,500 that the city taxpayers subsidize daily to provide fire services not only for Hollister but also for the surrounding county and San Juan Bautista. Council members expressed a growing concern that the city is shouldering a disproportionate share of the financial burden, contributing significantly more to the overall budget than its partners. With a total budget of $16 million, the city’s partners contribute only 15.7%, raising questions about the fairness of this arrangement.

The council's discussions also highlighted critical staffing levels within the fire department. Currently, the city operates with a dangerously low ratio of 0.6 fire personnel per thousand residents. This figure, council members noted, is inadequate for ensuring the safety of the community. Chief Golding emphasized the need for a robust fire service, proposing that if the city were to provide services solely within its limits, it would still require at least four engine companies to maintain adequate coverage.

As the dialogue progressed, the chief acknowledged the complexities involved in retaining all fire personnel while managing budget constraints. He suggested that while some cost savings could be realized by reducing the service area, the overall impact on staffing and service quality could be detrimental. The council recognized that maintaining a skilled and experienced fire department is crucial, and any changes to service agreements must carefully consider the long-term implications for public safety.

The meeting also touched on the contractual obligations with the county, including provisions for equipment sales and the potential for future negotiations. Council members expressed a desire for a more equitable distribution of costs and responsibilities, emphasizing the importance of a fair agreement that reflects the city's contributions.

As the meeting concluded, the council left with a renewed commitment to advocate for a more balanced approach to fire services, ensuring that the safety of Hollister residents remains a top priority. The discussions underscored the ongoing challenges faced by local governments in managing resources while striving to provide essential services to their communities.