Firefighters in Colorado Springs Have More Than Just Fires To Worry About

Some of Colorado Springs’ newest firefighters may lose their jobs amidst an upcoming round of city budget cuts.

Union President Lt. Mike Smaldino said he understand the situation, but is worried that layoffs will affect response times, safety and efficiency for the fire department.

“There isn’t a whole lot we can cut,” said Smaldino. “We haven’t been in this position. There’s a lot of nervous firefighters out there, and I can’t blame them right now.”

During a two-hour demonstration outside City Hall on Friday afternoon, seven people carried signs protesting the cutbacks. Those protestors want to maintain recreational leagues and various other programs which may be eliminated from the Parks & Recreation Department budget.

“I feel a little better,” said Colleen Noyes, an organizer for the protest. “At least now, it’s out there- and the community is going to get very involved. The more they know, the more the Council will have to at least listen.”

Councilman Tom Gallagher said he will try to save the youth programs, but that adult programs will probably have to go. The council will hold off on any decisions until they receive recommendations from the city manager.

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