LAPD Union to Oppose Firefighters' Sales Tax Measure
The Police Protective League plans to spend millions to fight Measure FD, a half-cent sales tax hike aimed at modernizing the Fire Department.
The Police Protective League plans to spend millions to fight Measure FD, a half-cent sales tax hike aimed at modernizing the Fire Department.
· Updated
The union representing Los Angeles police officers announced Tuesday it will oppose Measure FD, a proposed half-cent sales tax increase that is on the November 3 ballot. The measure, championed by the United Firefighters of Los Angeles City Local 112, aims to generate hundreds of millions of dollars annually for the Fire Department to fund new stations, hire more firefighters, and upgrade equipment.
The Police Protective League stated its intention to allocate several million dollars towards advertising and mailers to campaign against Measure FD. Union leadership expressed concerns about the tax being permanent, with no specified end date, citing affordability issues for residents.
Firefighters' union president Doug Coates argued that opposing the measure puts the public at risk, particularly in vulnerable communities, and called it a critical public safety decision for the city.
The firefighters' union has already invested over $2 million in supporting Measure FD and is seeking authorization from its members for an additional $3 million in spending. Internal polling suggests the measure has majority support, but the union acknowledges the need for a strong response to opposition.
If approved, Measure FD would increase the city's sales tax to 10.75%, costing the average person an estimated $86 annually. The initiative also mandates continued funding for the Fire Department at a specific average percentage of the general fund. Proponents estimate the tax could enable the construction of at least 30 new fire stations and the hiring of approximately 1,400 new personnel by 2050.
FAQ
What is Measure FD?
Measure FD is a proposed half-cent sales tax increase intended to fund the modernization of the Los Angeles Fire Department, including building new stations and hiring more personnel.
What are the main arguments for and against Measure FD?
Supporters argue it is essential for public safety and modernizing the Fire Department, while opponents cite concerns about the tax's permanence and affordability.
