Folsom residents are being asked to take part in an upcoming City Council meeting where city leaders will discuss the possibility of a hiring freeze for 10 firefighter positions. City Manager Bryan Whitemyer said the decision is important due to the city's current budget shortfall. The financial challenge follows the recent voter rejection of Measure G, which would have provided additional funding, as reported by the City of Folsom.
The Folsom City Council will meet on Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. at City Hall to discuss vacant positions that need to be filled by July 21. The city is facing a $3 million budget shortfall this year, with a possible $5 million deficit next year. In past years, the city has used its "rainy day reserves" for unexpected costs such as roof repairs and electrocardiogram monitors for the fire department. After Measure G was not approved by voters last November, the city put a hiring freeze on all positions funded by the General Fund. “Let me be clear — I don’t take lightly the idea of delaying or deferring public safety hires,” Whitemyer said, according to the City of Folsom.
The City Manager is encouraging residents to get involved as the city faces important financial decisions. He is asking the public to attend the upcoming council meeting, listen, and share their opinions. "Your input matters as we navigate this difficult decision together," said Whitemyer. For those unable to attend in person, the city has made the meeting available to watch online. Staff reports and other resources are also accessible for anyone who wants to review the council's agenda. With a deadline for action approaching, community feedback will play a role in the final decision, as stated by the City of Folsom.
