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Lawrence fire chief asks committee to approve $457,000 free‑cash transfer to cover overtime

Budget and Finance Committee, Lawrence City · April 28, 2026
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Summary

Fire Chief Patrick Delaney asked the Budget and Finance Committee to transfer $457,000 from free cash to the Fire Department overtime account, citing persistent staffing shortfalls, a spike in injured‑in‑the‑line‑of‑duty cases and a multi‑month hiring timeline; the committee recommended the transfer to the full council.

The Budget and Finance Committee on April 27 voted to send to the full City Council a request to transfer $457,000 from free cash to the Lawrence Fire Department overtime account.

Fire Chief Patrick Delaney told the committee the department routinely starts shifts with about 22 firefighters and must build up to the contractual minimum manning level of 24. "I believe we should have at least 27," Delaney said, arguing the city remains short‑staffed and routinely covers absences caused by vacation, illness and injured‑in‑the‑line‑of‑duty cases. He reported the department has had about 12 ILD cases this year and said some recent hires will not be available for months because of academy scheduling.

Councilors pressed Delaney on average daily staffing, the recent hiring cycle and whether the requested transfer covers recurring costs or one‑time needs. Delaney said the money is needed to ensure minimum staffing while the department completes recruitments and training; he said the most recent academy seats are not available until later this calendar year and that he is planning additional hiring to offset retirements.

CAFO Ramona Ceballos and council members asked for follow‑up details about hiring timelines and the department’s projections; Delaney said newly hired firefighters are expected to be available only after they complete the academy and certification steps.

After discussion, Councilor Mark LaPlante moved and Council President Giovanni Rodriguez seconded a motion to send the transfer request to the full City Council with a favorable recommendation. The committee approved the motion by recorded voice vote.

The committee’s referral means the full City Council will consider the transfer; the finance manager will supply any requested follow‑up staffing and cost projections before that meeting.