Agenda Item # 14.1 - Greg and Molly Leach | Received 10/02/2023CAUTION: This email originated from an External Source. Please use proper judgment and caution when opening
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From:Council Member Zachary Hilton
To:Public Comments
Cc:City Clerk
Subject:Fw: EXTERNAL - Gilroy Firefighters and staffing
Date:Monday, October 2, 2023 6:22:10 AM
City Clerk,
Please add this public comment for Item 14.1. Thank you.
Zach Hilton
Gilroy City Council Member
www.zachhilton.com
#HiltonForCouncil @zachhilton_ca
From: Molly Leach <
Sent: Sunday, October 1, 2023 7:38 PM
To: Mayor Marie Blankley <Marie.Blankley@ci.gilroy.ca.us>; Council Member Rebeca Armendariz
<Rebeca.Armendariz@ci.gilroy.ca.us>; Council Member Dion Bracco <Dion.Bracco@ci.gilroy.ca.us>;
Council Member Tom Cline <Tom.Cline@ci.gilroy.ca.us>; Council Member Zachary Hilton
<Zachary.Hilton@ci.gilroy.ca.us>; Council Member Carol Marques <Carol.Marques@ci.gilroy.ca.us>;
Council Member Fred Tovar <Fred.Tovar@ci.gilroy.ca.us>
Subject: EXTERNAL - Gilroy Firefighters and staffing
Greg and Molly Leach
Oct. 1, 2023
Dear Members of the Gilroy City Council,
I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits. I am writing to express my
concern and to advocate for an increase in staffing at our local fire department. As a
concerned citizen and a member of this community, I have witnessed firsthand the
invaluable service provided by our dedicated firefighters. I believe that an expansion in
staffing is crucial to ensuring the continued safety and well-being of our residents.
Over the years, our community has grown significantly in terms of population and
infrastructure. This growth has brought about an increase in the number of emergency
situations, accidents, and medical emergencies that require the immediate response and
expertise of our firefighters. It is evident that our current staffing levels may not be sufficient
to meet the demands of our expanding community.
Here are some reasons why I believe we need more staffing at our fire department:
1. **Response Time**: With a larger population, the response time to emergencies is
critical. Additional staff can help ensure quicker response times, which can make a
significant difference in life-threatening situations.
2. **Safety**: The safety of both our residents and our firefighters is paramount. Adequate
staffing ensures that firefighters can work more efficiently and safely during emergencies,
reducing the risk of injury.
3. **Fatigue and Burnout**: Our current firefighters are working tirelessly to serve our
community. However, the strain of long shifts and frequent call-outs can lead to fatigue and
burnout. Increased staffing can help distribute the workload more evenly.
4. **Community Growth**: As our community continues to grow, the demands on our fire
department will only increase. We must be proactive in preparing for future needs.
I understand that budget constraints and resource allocation are significant factors in
decision-making. However, I firmly believe that investing in additional staffing for our fire
department is an investment in the safety and well-being of our community. I encourage
you to explore funding opportunities and consider the long-term benefits of an adequately
staffed fire department.
Thank you for your time and consideration of this matter. I trust that you will make the best
decision for the safety and welfare of our community.
Sincerely,
Greg and Molly Leach