The Canandaigua City Council passed the 2025 budget on December 10, agreeing to fund a comprehensive public safety study but falling short of increasing firefighter staffing levels despite debate.
The approved budget includes a full study examining fire, police, and ambulance services. Council members also greenlit the addition of a Deputy Fire Chief position but rejected a proposal to hire two additional firefighters. The study, funded through the capital balance, aims to provide data-driven insights to address growing concerns over emergency response needs.
Discussions were prompted by passionate testimony from firefighters and residents following a recent house fire, which underscored potential gaps in emergency response capacity. Council member Doug Merrill emphasized the need for data before committing to additional hires, citing historical fire risk statistics that have remained stable. Mayor Bob Palumbo expressed disappointment, advocating for increased staffing to enhance public safety.
Council member Michael Mills highlighted the city’s role in regional emergency services, suggesting the study could help identify ways to balance resources with neighboring communities. The council’s decision comes amid rising concerns about volunteer firefighter shortages and the city’s capacity to manage regional demands.
The $7.4 million tax levy for 2025 includes no new firefighter positions but allocates funds for the Deputy Fire Chief and the public safety study.
Next year’s findings could shape future staffing decisions, with several council members expressing openness to reassessing needs based on the study’s conclusions.
The budget takes effect on Jan. 1, 2025. The decision follows criticism from fire crews over a lack of support during a fatal fire on Nov. 30.
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