LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Louisville Metro Council is allocating $6 million of its $16 million budget surplus to the city's fire department, providing much-needed funding for repairs and equipment upgrades.
This comes after alarming conditions within the department were highlighted, including outdated gear and deteriorating facilities.
The department's struggles became public earlier this year when a 10-year-old rope—well past its recommended service life—was used during a dramatic rescue of a truck driver dangling from the Second Street Bridge.
"What I have been working on with mayor's office is a project and a layout of a plan that is going to take us where we need to be," Chief Brian O'Neill said.
The department's aging equipment has also hindered operations. One of its oldest fire trucks broke down during a massive church fire on Broadway in October, underscoring the dire need for upgrades.
In recent months, the union has shared troubling images and reports with Metro Council members, revealing holes in firehouse walls, peeling paint and bathrooms unsuitable for female firefighters. Electrical hazards were also cited as a major concern.
“The pictures and reports received overwhelming recognition from the council and the community,” Jeff Taylor, president of Louisville Professional Firefighters Local 54, said.
Fire department leaders have worked closely with the mayor’s office to draft a plan for addressing these challenges.
While the fire department initially requested more funding, Thursday’s Metro Council Budget Committee discussion marked progress in addressing critical needs.
The $6 million allocation now awaits final approval from the full Metro Council. If passed, it will provide the money for three new fire trucks to compliment three already on order.
IMAGES | Louisville Fire shows firehouses in disrepair to Metro Council to highlight need for funding
The Louisville Fire Department has sent more than 150 photos to Metro Council, offering a firsthand look at the severity of the issues plaguing the city's firehouses. (All photos courtesy of Jeff Taylor/Louisville Professional Firefighters Local 54 union)
Previous Coverage:
- Louisville Fire seeks $34M for repairs, new equipment as Metro Council weighs budget priorities
- Louisville Fire department highlights urgent need for millions in repairs, equipment
- Mayor asking Metro Council to send surplus budget money to Louisville Fire Department
- Louisville Fire Department seeks budget surplus to repair deteriorating firehouses, equipment
- Council committee approves 5-year contract for Louisville firefighters
- Louisville firefighters say city is doing little to fix conditions at older firehouses
- Louisville firefighters approve city's 5-year contract after rejecting it in May
- Louisville Fire officials say department needs $31 million to catch up on deferred maintenance
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