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Holyoke panel approves $300,000 transfer to cover firefighter overtime amid staffing shortages
Summary
The Finance Committee approved a $300,000 transfer to the fire department’s overtime account to cover personnel shortages and holiday coverage; city officials said eight new hires are expected to start in January, which should reduce overtime pressure.
The Holyoke City Finance Committee voted Nov. 24 to approve a $300,000 transfer in the fiscal year 2026 budget to cover firefighter overtime.
The chief told the committee the department had experienced hiring challenges: of seven hires earlier in the year only three completed the onboarding process; the department had been down about 14 positions but recently hired eight more, several of whom are expected to begin in January pending physicals and other clearances. The chief said the transfer is intended to fund overtime through the remainder of the fiscal year (to June 30) and to avoid shortfalls during the holiday period.
Councillor Sullivan asked whether the chief was referring to the fiscal year; the chief confirmed FY2026. The committee moved to approve the transfer and recorded unanimous yes votes from Councillors Sullivan, Devine, Givner and Ocasio.
The city said the overtime need should lessen once the new hires complete onboarding, but officials noted the appropriation is housekeeping to ensure public‑safety coverage through the fiscal year.
