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Fernandina Beach approves partial‑year funding for three firefighters after debate over contingency use
Summary
The commission approved a budget amendment to move contingency funds to pay for three firefighter positions for the remainder of the fiscal year, drawing one 'no' vote over concerns the contingency should be preserved and the positions budgeted in regular cycles.
The Fernandina Beach City Commission approved a budget amendment to transfer contingency funds into the fire department to add three full‑time firefighter positions phased in during the fiscal year after the city did not receive a federal SAFER grant.
Chief Ty Silcox described a staffing shortfall that dates back years and told the commission the department had been short roughly 12 positions when he arrived; the department has since filled six of those vacancies. “We have filled 6 at this point,” he said, and characterized the three positions as part of an ongoing plan to reach staffing goals.
Staff presented resolution 2024‑192 to transfer $150,446 from the contingency account to fund half‑year salaries for three firefighters; the amendment was framed as a phased approach to make the positions affordable for the current budget year. Commissioners debated whether using contingency — a fund typically reserved for unforeseen events — was appropriate for a long‑known staffing need. Commissioner Ross said contingency is meant for unexpected emergencies and criticized moving a third of the contingency on day one of the budget, noting a portion of contingency was already earmarked for a settlement; he voted no.
Supporters, including the mayor and other commissioners, argued the transfer followed an agreed plan and that contingency held additional funds specifically for this risk if the SAFER grant was not awarded. Commissioners also discussed reapplying for the SAFER grant next year to offset ongoing costs.
The motion passed on roll call 4–1 (Commissioner Ross opposed). Staff noted the full annualized cost next year will be higher and that collective bargaining outcomes will also affect the budget. The commission asked staff to continue pursuing grant opportunities and to return with long‑term budget options.
Next steps: the three positions will be phased in as described; staff will continue grant applications for SAFER and report back with the next budget cycle figures.
