The union representing Los Angeles Fire Department firefighters thanked city voters Thursday for their support on Measure FD, a half-sales tax increase.
As of Thursday morning, Measure FD led 53.68%-46.32% and 430,576-371,505, according to figures released by the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk.
If passed, Measure FD would raise the city’s sales tax to 10.75%. Revenue generated by the tax would be used to build new fire stations, hire new recruits and upgrade equipment.
The proposal came in response to the January 2025 fires that destroyed thousands of homes in Pacific Palisades and killed 12 people.
United Firefighters of Los Angeles City, the union representing city firefighters, said more money is needed to fund the department. The LAFD has about 3,400 firefighters across 106 fire stations, a number that has not changed since the 1960s, according to the union.
“The results continue to be promising and we’re optimistic that Measure FD is headed toward victory. This measure, if successful, will be the biggest investment in the history of the Los Angeles Fire Department,” UFLAC President Doug Coates said in a statement.
“It will allow the LAFD to hire desperately needed firefighters, paramedics, and purchase new fire trucks, engines and ambulances so that we can arrive on time when L.A. residents need us the most,” Coates added.
On behalf of the union, Coates said they were grateful and humbled by the support from L.A. city voters.
“When they call, we show up. Now, it appears that they’ve answered our call for help,” Coates said in his statement.
He emphasized that if Measure FD passes, the union and fire department will have an obligation to ensure the will of the voters is upheld, and that the new revenue is spent only on core LAFD services.
“UFLAC will track every single dollar and make sure that our Maintenance of Effort provision is followed so that the new revenue cannot be used to replace existing funding levels,” Coates said.
“Although the results are not yet final, on behalf of the 3,300 members of United Firefighters of Los Angeles, I want to express our overwhelming gratitude for the support we’ve received from local residents,” Coates added.
The sales tax increase is on track to be approved, along with seven other city measures.
The union representing Los Angeles Police Department police officer and the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association had opposed Measure FD, citing concerns over affordability and placing a greater burden on taxpayers.