Firefighters and lifeguards press council on pay, crews warn of retention crisis

San Diego Firefighters Local 145 and lifeguard representatives from Teamsters 986 made impassioned presentations at the council’s annual vacancies and recruitment public hearing on June 8, warning that pay and poor facilities are eroding recruitment and retention for two critical public‑safety workforces.

Mark Morrison, vice president of Local 145, described a ‘‘sea of red’’ — firefighters who remain committed but face pay scales that lag peer agencies — and urged council action to make local compensation competitive with Los Angeles and other nearby systems. Local 145 described staffing consequences including younger, less‑experienced recruits and rising operational strain on experienced crews.

Patrick McVann, a Teamsters steward speaking for lifeguards, said lifeguards earn roughly 20% less than comparable county agencies and described deteriorating stations (Ocean Beach, Mission Beach, North Pacific Beach) that hinder retention and morale. Both unions recommended concrete steps: a compensation strategy to reach market median, investment in facilities and training pipelines, and greater use of revenue options to fund public safety.

Councilmembers across the dais acknowledged the urgency, compared compensation surveys, and discussed revenue options — including targeting new local revenue streams and reexamining budget priorities. Personnel staff said the city is increasing hiring efforts (additional recruit academies and hiring halls) and lowering hiring barriers where possible. The council and union leaders agreed to continue discussions as contract negotiations progress.