The Personnel and Hiring Committee of Los Angeles City convened on January 24, 2025, to address pressing issues concerning firefighter compensation and staffing shortages. The meeting began with a statement from Jang Ho, a director with over twenty years of experience in firefighting, who expressed deep concerns regarding the prolonged delays in payment for firefighters. He highlighted that many firefighters have been forced to work extra hours due to a reduction in personnel, yet they have received no compensation for this additional work.

Ho emphasized the critical nature of their responsibilities, stating that firefighters are expected to respond to emergencies promptly, but the ongoing payment issues have left them without answers. He urged city leaders to resolve these payment discrepancies swiftly, underscoring the urgency of the situation for those serving the community.

Following Ho's remarks, Director Bridal, a resident of San Fernando, echoed similar sentiments regarding the payment problems faced by firefighters. He reiterated the need for the committee to understand the challenges that their members are experiencing with their paychecks.

The discussions highlighted the significant impact of staffing shortages on the operational capabilities of the fire department and the morale of its personnel. The committee acknowledged the concerns raised and committed to exploring solutions to rectify the payment issues and improve staffing levels.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the critical need for timely compensation and adequate staffing for firefighters in Los Angeles. The committee plans to follow up on these discussions in future meetings, aiming to implement effective measures to support the city's emergency responders.