Voice of OC (https://voiceofoc.org/tag/orange-county-professional-firefighters-association/)
Orange County Fire Authority Chief Jeff Bowman stepped down after a group of managers called for his resignation. It’s unclear what their concerns were, and an effort is underway to bring Bowman back.
DA finds no criminal wrongdoing three years after disclosures that Orange County Fire Authority officials charged businesses fees for inspections that were never done.
As local officials continue a bitter debate over a firefighters union-backed bill, big players on the state level are taking notice.
City could save more than $14 million annually by starting its own fire department, according to independent study completed six months ago. But such a move would have far-reaching implications.
Under a pilot program, private paramedics will assist on 911 rescue calls. New chief hopes it will lead to more efficient deployment of rescue crews.
Former chief of the Anaheim and San Diego departments will take over the embattled agency.
In May, auditors reported “a lack of accountability at all levels” of the agency. What they didn’t specifically mention were alleged issues involving sex, drugs and alcohol.
Orange County Fire Authority Chief Keith Richter and a member of his inner circle have close relationships to group that won contract to study the agency’s coverage plan.
As speculation runs rampant regarding fire chief’s job performance, the agency is months late in releasing a management audit.
Chief Keith Richter wants more paramedic teams deployed during busy daytime hours. A union spokesman says a change in long-used procedures would be a detriment to public safety.