Controversial Firing of Los Angeles Fire Chief Raises Questions
Los Angeles, California
Los Angeles City Councilmember Monica Rodriguez is calling for former Fire Chief Kristin Crowley to appeal her recent dismissal by Mayor Karen Bass, claiming that the ousting is not improving public safety in the fire-ravaged region.
Councilwoman’s Concerns
Rodriguez, whose district was affected by the Hurst Fire, believes Crowley’s firing was "scapegoating" and a politically motivated decision. She questions the legitimacy of the reasons cited by Bass for the termination, suggesting that an appeal would provide transparency and accountability.
Fire Chief’s Perspective
Crowley has not yet indicated whether she will appeal, but she expressed her honor and pride in leading the Los Angeles Fire Department. She has 10 days from the date of her firing, March 3rd, to file an appeal. The council’s approval would require a two-thirds majority to overturn the firing.
Mayor’s Rationale
Bass stated that her decision was in the "best interests of public safety" and cited a report alleging that fire officials failed to deploy available firefighters and water-carrying engines during the wind-driven fires.
Councilwoman’s Response
Rodriguez dismissed this rationale as a "gotcha" and highlighted the limited resources facing the fire department. She emphasized that a thorough investigation should determine the availability of apparatus and firefighters.
Firefighters’ Union Weighs In
The United Firefighters of Los Angeles City Local 112 also expressed support for Crowley, claiming that she was "dismissed without a full investigation." They pointed out the ongoing issues with broken-down equipment due to civilian mechanic job cuts.
Budget Cuts Controversy
The firing comes amidst scrutiny of Bass’s handling of the fire budget. Documents obtained by USA TODAY show a reduction in the Los Angeles Fire Department’s budget for fiscal year 2025. Crowley had previously warned the fire commission about the impact of budget cuts on apparatus repairs.
Tension Between Mayor and Fire Chief
Tensions between Crowley and Bass escalated after Crowley’s television interviews during the fire emergency. The mayor’s office had to deny rumors of Crowley’s dismissal at the time.
Mayor’s Absence During Fire Outbreak
Bass was out of the country on a diplomatic trip when the Palisades Fire broke out. Councilmember Rodriguez expressed concerns about the absence of the city’s chief executive during such a critical event.
Weather Forecast and Notification
Rodriguez emphasized that weather forecasts and warnings about the fire danger were widely reported in the media. She stated that the responsibility for notifying the mayor rested with the Emergency Management Department, not the fire chief.
After-Action Report Response
Rodriguez refuted the claim that Crowley failed to participate in an after-action report. She maintained that Crowley’s cooperation and participation in such reports were consistent with standard operating procedures.
Mayor’s Office Defense
The mayor’s office defended the firing, pointing to the off-duty firefighters who were allegedly left unutilized during the fires. They asserted that "bringing new leadership to the fire department is what our city needs."
City Council President’s Support for Firing
City Council President Marqueece Harris-Dawson expressed his support for Crowley’s firing. He claimed that he did not receive sufficient information from the fire chief during the fire and encouraged the mayor to separate from her earlier.
