Jacksonville Budget Hearings Start as Firefighter Hours Debate Intensifies

Addressing Firefighter Well-Being Amid Budget Challenges

The City of Jacksonville is currently conducting its annual budget hearings, and one department under close examination is the Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department (JFRD). This review comes at a time when fire departments across Florida are facing increasing pressure to reduce firefighter hours. The initiative aims to address the growing mental and physical strain associated with the demanding nature of firefighting.

A Tragic Reminder: Firefighter Suicides Highlight Urgent Need for Change

Firefighting is not only physically hazardous but can also pose unexpected risks to mental health. Jeff Huggins, a firefighter from Florida, died by suicide earlier this year, prompting his friend Mike Rodriguez to reflect on the signs of mental distress that were only recognized after his passing.

“His mental anguish, some of the things that were being said prior to, that didn’t click until after his death,” Rodriguez said.

According to the Ruderman White Paper on Mental Health and Suicide of First Responders, firefighters die by suicide at a rate of 18 per 100,000 — significantly higher than the general population, which stands at 13 per 100,000. These alarming statistics underscore the urgent need for changes in how firefighter well-being is addressed.

Statewide Push for a 42-Hour Work Week

In June, Governor Ron DeSantis signed a bill recommending a shift from the current 56-hour work week to a 42-hour schedule. Supporters argue that this change is crucial for protecting the physical and mental health of firefighters.

“You’re going to see that the 42-hour work week will become instrumental to the physical and mental health of our members,” said Bernie Bernoska, President of the Florida Professional Firefighters Association.

Financial Implications for JFRD

However, implementing this change in Jacksonville could come with significant financial challenges. Kelly Dobson, President of the Jacksonville Fire Union, highlighted the potential costs of transitioning to a 42-hour schedule. This would require hiring an entire fourth shift, adding approximately 450 firefighters, with a projected price tag exceeding $100 million.

“It’s a huge budget hit if you try to do it in one year,” Dobson explained.

Over-Budget Fire Department and Overtime Concerns

An investigation by Action News Jax revealed that the JFRD’s budget has grown by $90 million over the past three years, with overtime being a major contributing factor. This year alone, the department is on track to exceed its overtime budget by more than $4.5 million.

This finding prompted city leaders and JFRD to reassess their overtime practices. The issue has sparked a broader conversation about how to manage resources effectively while maintaining service quality.

Other Cities Have Already Adopted the 42-Hour Schedule

According to Bernoska, at least five Florida fire departments have already implemented the 42-hour workweek. These include:

• Palm Beach County
• Pasco County
• Boca Raton
• Kissimmee
• Gainesville

Despite these examples, many departments, including Jacksonville, are still evaluating the financial impact of such a transition.

No Immediate Changes for JFRD

In a statement to Action News Jax, JFRD Fire Chief Percy Golden noted that the department is closely monitoring House Bill 929 and proposed updates to the Florida Firefighters Occupational Safety and Health Act. These changes aim to improve firefighter health and safety.

“We take the well-being of our personnel seriously and look forward to further guidance from the Division of State Fire Marshal. No immediate changes are planned for JFRD personnel regarding the proposed move to a 42-hour workweek. We will carefully review any state recommendations and assess all relevant factors once more information becomes available.”

Dobson added that the implementation of a 42-hour schedule in Jacksonville may not occur for nearly a decade.

“It’s probably a 9-year look-out as far as implementation period,” he said.

Exploring Short-Term Solutions

As the department evaluates long-term options, Dobson mentioned the possibility of adopting “Kelly Days” as an interim measure. This schedule involves:

• A 24-hour shift
• Followed by 24 hours off
• Then another 24-hour shift
• Followed by four consecutive days off

The goal is to reduce burnout without compromising service coverage.

JFRD’s current contract with the city expires in 2027, providing both sides with time to explore additional strategies and solutions.