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Big Bear Fire Authority approves budget with targeted cuts after heated public and board debate
Summary
After hours of public testimony and director debate over proposed brownouts and staffing cuts, the Big Bear Fire Authority approved a modified 2025–26 budget that reduces spending by trimming a roof project, pausing an HRA benefit and removing a street‑light reimbursement line. Staff were directed to return with a funding and service‑impact report.
The Big Bear Fire Authority on Sept. 9 approved a revised fiscal 2025–26 budget that trims approximately $264,500 in near‑term spending and directs staff to report back on remaining funding and service implications.
The board approved a motion to adopt the previously circulated budget with three specific reductions: defer the Station 282 roof replacement ($150,000), eliminate a health‑retirement account benefit for ambulance operators ($75,000) and remove a $39,500 street‑light reimbursement line that had appeared in authority operating expenses. The motion passed by roll call after extended debate among directors over whether additional cuts recommended by the finance committee should be included.
The decision followed a weeks‑long finance committee effort and a chief’s presentation of possible savings that collectively could total roughly $2.1 million if fully…
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