Rising operational costs and reduced federal funding are forcing Central Mason Fire & EMS to consider laying off 17 firefighters. This potential reduction represents 25% of the department's active response force, impacting their ability to serve a large geographic area. Despite a recent voter-approved tax increase, the department's budget remains insufficient. Firefighters are negotiating concessions to mitigate the layoffs and questioning the board's financial management. The union hopes to prevent a decrease in public safety services.
Shelton, Washington
https://www.kiro7.com/news/local/local-fire-district-could-lose-25-firefighters-layoffs/MWQ25KGMNRCXDASTPVODQ55XII/