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New York City Council

Committee on Fire and Emergency Management

Mar 14, 2025

·

10:00 AM

4 hr 23 min

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Summary

A hearing on the fiscal year 2026 preliminary budget for the Fire Department of New York (FDNY) and New York City Emergency Management (NYCEM).

Discussions focused on FDNY's $2.6 billion budget, including initiatives to reduce fire fatalities, address EMS staffing challenges, and implement technology upgrades.

NYCEM's $79 million budget was examined, with emphasis on emergency response activities, community preparedness programs, and potential impacts of federal funding cuts.

Council members raised concerns about EMS response times, pay parity, vehicle replacements, and firehouse repairs.

Features testimony from FDNY Commissioner Robert Tucker, NYCEM Commissioner Zachary Iscol, and the public.

Meeting chapters

Read summaries and watch videos for short segments that matter to you.

REMARKS

Introduction to the FY2026 preliminary budget hearing for fire and emergency management

Council Member Joann Ariola opens the fiscal year 2026 preliminary budget hearing for the Committee on Fire and Emergency Management. She introduces herself as the chair and outlines the purpose …

0:00:40

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25 sec

REMARKS

Expressions of gratitude to FDNY and NYCEM staff

Council Member Joann Ariola expresses heartfelt thanks to the members of the Fire Department and New York City Emergency Management for their dedication and service. She acknowledges their sacrifices and …

0:01:05

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42 sec

REMARKS

Overview of FDNY's fiscal year 2026 preliminary budget

Council Member Joann Ariola presents an overview of the Fire Department's fiscal year 2026 preliminary budget. She outlines the total budget amount, staffing levels, and recent changes to the financial …

0:01:48

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39 sec

REMARKS

Outline of topics to be discussed in the budget hearing

Council Member Joann Ariola presents an outline of the key topics and issues to be addressed during the budget hearing. She emphasizes the importance of discussing new budget needs and …

0:02:27

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77 sec

REMARKS

Introduction of committee staff and FDNY officials

Council Member Joann Ariola introduces and thanks the committee staff for their hard work in preparing for the hearing. She also welcomes Commissioner Tucker and other FDNY officials present for …

0:03:46

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59 sec

REMARKS

Council Member Schulman addresses Fire Department and emphasizes resource needs

Council Member Lynn C. Schulman addresses the Fire Department and Commissioner Tucker, emphasizing the importance of being honest about resource needs during the budget hearing. She expresses her intention to …

0:05:48

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52 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

FDNY Commissioner introduces 2024 performance overview

FDNY Commissioner Robert Tucker presents the preliminary budget for fiscal year 2026 and provides an overview of the department's performance in 2024. He highlights a strong year with decreases in …

0:06:47

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43 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

FDNY reports significant reduction in lithium-ion battery fire fatalities

Commissioner Tucker reports a substantial decrease in deaths related to lithium-ion battery fires, from 18 fatalities in 2023 to 6 in 2024. This improvement is attributed to proactive measures taken …

0:07:30

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122 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

FDNY declares 2025 as Fire Prevention Year

Commissioner Tucker announces the declaration of 2025 as Fire Prevention Year in New York City, marking the 100th anniversary of National Fire Prevention Week. This initiative includes several new programs …

0:09:33

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68 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

FDNY expands fire safety education and outreach programs

Commissioner Tucker highlights the FDNY's focus on fire and life safety outreach as a top priority in 2024, with plans to continue this emphasis in 2025. The department's fire safety …

0:10:41

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49 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

FDNY promotes CPR training initiatives for New Yorkers

Commissioner Tucker emphasizes the importance of CPR training programs offered by the FDNY. These initiatives aim to equip New Yorkers with life-saving skills and have already shown positive results in …

0:11:30

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95 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

FDNY reports success in firefighter recruitment campaign

Commissioner Tucker highlights the success of the FDNY's firefighter recruitment campaign, which resulted in a significant number of applicants for the firefighter exam. The campaign used diverse strategies to reach …

0:13:06

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125 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

FDNY surpasses EMT recruitment goals

Commissioner Tucker reports on the success of the FDNY's EMT recruitment efforts, which exceeded their initial goals. The department's innovative approach to addressing the nationwide challenge of EMS recruitment is …

0:15:11

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26 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

FDNY promotes highest-ranking female fire officer in department history

Commissioner Tucker announces the promotion of Deputy Chief Michelle Fitzsimmons, marking a historic moment for women in the FDNY. This promotion represents a significant step towards gender equality in the …

0:15:38

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50 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

FDNY addresses surge in brush fires with innovative approaches

Commissioner Tucker discusses the significant increase in brush fires faced by the FDNY in late 2024, highlighting the department's proactive and innovative response to this challenge. - The number of …

0:16:29

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104 sec

REMARKS

Council member praises Commissioner Tucker's leadership and inquires about objectives

Council Member Joann Ariola commends Fire Commissioner Robert Tucker for his on-the-ground leadership approach, praising his direct engagement with firefighters and EMS workers. She notes this as a refreshing change …

0:18:14

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30 sec

Q&A

Commissioner Tucker outlines primary objectives for FDNY

Commissioner Robert Tucker responds to Council Member Ariola's question about his primary objectives for the FDNY in his first year. He emphasizes the department's focus on safety and his approach …

0:18:45

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58 sec

Q&A

Timeline and plans for upcoming FDNY firefighter and EMS academies

Council Member Ariola inquires about the timeline for upcoming firefighter and EMS academies, and FDNY officials provide details on their plans and efforts to fill these classes. - Commissioner Tucker …

0:19:44

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89 sec

Q&A

FDNY recruitment efforts and diversity in hiring

Council Member Ariola and FDNY officials discuss the department's recent recruitment efforts and the diversity of applicants for firefighter and EMS positions. - The FDNY has launched a significant recruitment …

0:21:15

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68 sec

Q&A

Consideration of part-time or per diem EMTs to address staffing issues

Council Member Ariola inquires about the potential use of part-time or per diem EMTs to address current staffing issues in the FDNY's Emergency Medical Services. - Commissioner Tucker confirms that …

0:22:31

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63 sec

Q&A

Impact of civilian headcount reduction on FDNY operations

Council Member Ariola inquires about the effect of civilian headcount reduction on the FDNY's operations, and Commissioner Tucker provides insights on the current situation. - Commissioner Tucker assures that critical …

0:23:35

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123 sec

Q&A

Addressing increased response times for life-threatening medical emergencies

Council Member Ariola raises concerns about increased response times for life-threatening medical emergencies, and Commissioner Tucker outlines several strategies the FDNY is implementing to address this issue. - Response times …

0:25:38

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3 min

Q&A

Ideas to prevent ambulances from going out of service

Council Member Ariola inquires about additional strategies to keep ambulances in service, referencing a recent incident where a patient died due to nearby ambulances being out of service. - Ariola …

0:29:05

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53 sec

Q&A

FDNY's plans for technological improvements and AI integration

Commissioner Tucker outlines the FDNY's plans for significant technological improvements, including a new Computer Assisted Dispatching (CAD) system and the integration of AI to enhance emergency response efficiency. - The …

0:29:59

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3 min

Q&A

Council Member Zhuang inquires about preventing fires in squatter-occupied buildings

Council Member Susan Zhuang raises concerns about recurring fires in a squatter-occupied house in her district, seeking solutions to prevent such incidents. FDNY Commissioner Robert Tucker and Chief of Department …

0:33:34

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3 min

REMARKS

Council Member Marmorato introduces herself and expresses gratitude to FDNY

Council Member Kristy Marmorato introduces herself and expresses her appreciation for the FDNY's service. She shares her personal connection to the department, mentioning her father's service as a chief in …

0:37:37

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22 sec

Q&A

Discussion on hazmat response capabilities in the Bronx

Council Member Marmorato inquires about the lack of a dedicated hazmat engine in the Bronx and how this issue can be addressed. Chief Esposito explains the current hazmat response setup …

0:38:00

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77 sec

Q&A

Addressing communication challenges in high-rise buildings

Council Member Marmorato raises concerns about radio interference in high-rise buildings, drawing parallels to communication issues during 9/11. Chief Esposito explains improvements made since then and future plans. - FDNY …

0:39:18

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118 sec

Q&A

FDNY vehicle fleet status and needs

Council Member Marmorato inquires about potential vehicle shortages in the FDNY, similar to issues faced by the NYPD. Commissioner Tucker discusses the department's fleet situation and needs. - FDNY has …

0:41:16

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86 sec

Q&A

Life expectancy and current status of FDNY fire apparatus

Council Member Marmorato inquires about the life expectancy and costs of fire trucks and ladders. Deputy Commissioner Christoff provides detailed information on vehicle lifecycles and current fleet status. - Pumpers …

0:42:42

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70 sec

Q&A

Fire apparatus purchase and replacement challenges

Council Member Marmorato inquires about the process of purchasing and replacing fire apparatus. Deputy Commissioner Christoff and Commissioner Tucker explain the current situation and challenges faced. - FDNY purchases sizable …

0:43:52

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112 sec

Q&A

Budget priorities for FDNY fleet expansion and maintenance

Council Member Marmorato inquires about the biggest budget deficits in the FDNY fleet. Commissioner Tucker discusses priorities and ongoing efforts to address fleet needs. - The city has focused intensively …

0:45:44

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81 sec

Q&A

Funding and challenges in fire apparatus replacement

Council Member Marmorato inquires about the adequacy of funding for fire apparatus replacements. Commissioner Tucker explains the current situation and challenges faced in acquiring new apparatus. - Fire apparatus purchases …

0:47:05

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81 sec

Q&A

The role and importance of emergency crew trucks in FDNY operations

Council Member Marmorato inquires about emergency crew trucks and their function. Commissioner Tucker explains the importance of these vehicles in FDNY operations. - Emergency crew trucks are used by fleet …

0:48:27

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83 sec

Q&A

Exploring City Council funding opportunities for FDNY projects

Council Member Marmorato inquires about ways the City Council can provide funding assistance to FDNY. Commissioner Tucker expresses gratitude and discusses potential projects that could benefit from council support. - …

0:49:50

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138 sec

Q&A

FDNY's urgent need for EMS command cars

Commissioner Tucker highlights the critical need for EMS command cars and explains their importance in EMS operations. - EMS command cars are used by lieutenants who are first-line supervisors and …

0:52:11

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68 sec

Q&A

Lighthearted discussion on naming FDNY's robot dog

Council Member Marmorato inquires about the naming of FDNY's robot dog, ending the session on a lighthearted note. - Marmorato asks if the robot dog has been named yet - …

0:53:19

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24 sec

Q&A

Technology integration in firehouses for improved response times and safety

Council Member Kevin Riley inquires about the integration of technology in firehouse upgrades to improve response times and firefighter safety. Commissioner Robert Tucker emphasizes the FDNY's focus on technology as …

0:53:50

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3 min

Q&A

Improving living and working conditions in FDNY firehouses

Council Member Kevin Riley asks about the department's efforts to improve living and working conditions in firehouses, particularly in high-demand areas. Commissioner Robert Tucker discusses the challenges and ongoing projects …

0:57:20

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163 sec

REMARKS

Request for assessment of firehouses in Council District 12

Council Member Kevin Riley requests an assessment of the current condition of firehouses in his Council District 12. He expresses his willingness to support and help with the budget to …

1:00:03

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27 sec

Q&A

Diversity demographics in the FDNY workforce

Council Member Kevin Riley inquires about the current diversity demographics within the fire department. Commissioner Robert Tucker and Associate Commissioner Nafeesah Noonan provide information on the department's diversity efforts and …

1:00:30

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137 sec

Q&A

Budget allocation and staffing for FDNY fire prevention

Council Member Kevin Riley inquires about the budget allocation for fire prevention in the FDNY. Deputy Commissioner Lizette Christoff provides information on staffing numbers, while Commissioner Robert Tucker adds context …

1:02:47

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118 sec

REMARKS

Positive outcomes from community meeting in Queens

Council Member Ariola commends the FDNY Commissioner for holding a unique meeting in Queens that included council members, community boards, and the borough president. The meeting resulted in valuable outcomes, …

1:04:49

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93 sec

Q&A

Fleet maintenance and delivery timeline for FDNY vehicles

Council Member Ariola inquires about the timeline for receiving 200 outstanding fleet items. Deputy Commissioner Christoff explains that some items are currently being delivered, but there are delays for others. …

1:06:22

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129 sec

Q&A

Handling of outdated FDNY apparatus

Council Member Ariola inquires about the handling of outdated apparatus in the FDNY fleet. Chief of Department Esposito explains the department's approach to managing older vehicles. - Outdated apparatus are …

1:08:31

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54 sec

Q&A

Funding allocation for FDNY fire truck maintenance and replacement

Deputy Commissioner Christoff provides a detailed breakdown of the FDNY's budget for fleet maintenance and replacement, covering both operating and capital expenses. - The current OTPS (Other Than Personal Services) …

1:09:26

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109 sec

Q&A

EMS budget integration and ambulance fleet details

Council Member Ariola inquires about the integration of EMS budget with FDNY and details of the ambulance fleet. Deputy Commissioner Christoff provides information on budget allocation, ambulance mileage, and maintenance …

1:11:16

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105 sec

Q&A

Consideration of electric or hybrid models for FDNY ambulances

Council Member Ariola inquires about the FDNY's consideration of electric or hybrid models for its ambulance fleet to reduce emissions and improve efficiency. FDNY officials provide information on current and …

1:13:01

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60 sec

Q&A

Assessment of FDNY firehouses needing immediate repair

Council Member Ariola inquires about the number of firehouses needing immediate repair and associated cost estimates. FDNY officials indicate they need to follow up with specific information. - The FDNY …

1:14:02

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82 sec

REMARKS

Council Member Feliz thanks FDNY for their service

Council Member Oswald Feliz expresses gratitude to the FDNY for their daily service and the risks they take to save lives in New York City communities. - Feliz acknowledges FDNY …

1:15:25

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17 sec

Q&A

Council Member Feliz requests fire statistics for 2024

Council Member Oswald Feliz requests detailed fire statistics for 2024 from FDNY Commissioner Robert Tucker and Deputy Commissioner Lizette Christoff, including borough breakdowns and top causes of fires. - FDNY …

1:15:43

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122 sec

Q&A

FDNY's efforts to combat e-bike fires and lithium-ion battery issues

Commissioner Robert Tucker discusses FDNY's efforts to combat e-bike fires and lithium-ion battery issues, highlighting recent legislation and enforcement measures. - 67% decrease in fire deaths related to e-bikes reported …

1:17:46

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174 sec

Q&A

Comparison of fire and death statistics between 2023 and 2024

FDNY officials provide a comparison of fire and death statistics between 2023 and 2024, focusing on lithium-ion battery fires and overall civilian fire fatalities. - Lithium-ion battery fire deaths: 18 …

1:20:40

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98 sec

Q&A

FDNY's e-bike inspection team size and resources

Council Member Feliz inquires about the size and resources of FDNY's e-bike inspection team, with FDNY officials providing details on their approach to enforcement. - Special inspection team in fire …

1:22:19

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126 sec

Q&A

Discussion on the need for federal legislation on e-bike safety

Council Member Feliz and FDNY officials discuss the necessity of federal legislation to address e-bike safety issues effectively. - Agreement that city-level laws are insufficient due to the ease of …

1:24:27

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44 sec

REMARKS

FDNY's new enforcement measures against parking on fire hydrants

Commissioner Robert Tucker discusses FDNY's recent efforts to address the issue of cars parking on fire hydrants, highlighting new enforcement measures and their importance for public safety. - Two recent …

1:25:11

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122 sec

Q&A

Council Member Riley inquires about 911 response time delays

Council Member Kevin Riley raises concerns about reported delays in 911 response times, specifically mentioning instances where constituents have reached voicemail when calling 911. FDNY Commissioner Robert Tucker expresses alarm …

1:27:23

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120 sec

Q&A

Increased response times for structural fires and contributing factors

Council Member Ariola raises concerns about increased response times for structural fires, citing an increase from 5 minutes 10 seconds to 5 minutes 25 seconds. She suggests that various factors …

1:29:25

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50 sec

Q&A

Impact of congestion pricing on FDNY operations and response times

Commissioner Tucker discusses the challenges posed by congestion pricing on FDNY operations, particularly its impact on firefighters and EMS personnel assigned to work within the congestion pricing zone. While the …

1:30:17

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146 sec

Q&A

Reimbursement system for firefighters affected by congestion pricing

Commissioner Tucker explains the reimbursement system being implemented for firefighters affected by congestion pricing. The system will cover firefighters who are detailed into the congestion pricing zone from outside areas. …

1:32:43

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75 sec

Q&A

Impact of EMS to firefighter promotional exams on EMS staffing

Commissioner Tucker discusses the impact of EMS to firefighter promotional exams on EMS staffing levels. While the exams provide a career path for EMTs and paramedics, they also create staffing …

1:33:58

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147 sec

Q&A

EMS wages, pay parity, and retention challenges

Council Member Ariola raises concerns about EMS wages, pay parity, and retention challenges. She suggests that low wages are forcing EMS workers to become firefighters for financial reasons, even if …

1:36:29

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37 sec

REMARKS

Potential changes to NYC's pre-hospital care system

Commissioner Tucker discusses the need for changes in New York City's pre-hospital care system. He emphasizes the importance of addressing challenges in EMS operations and improving working conditions for EMTs …

1:37:06

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4 min

Q&A

Overtime usage in FDNY and EMS operations

Council Member Ariola inquires about overtime usage in FDNY and EMS operations, given recent mayoral directives on overtime control. Commissioners Tucker and Christoff provide detailed responses on the current state …

1:41:30

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4 min

Q&A

Strategies to reduce overtime through increased staffing and promotions

Council Member Ariola and Commissioner Tucker discuss strategies to reduce overtime through increased staffing and promotions. They emphasize the importance of filling all positions to naturally reduce overtime costs. - …

1:46:03

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22 sec

Q&A

Questions about manhole explosion incident and communication issues

Council Member Lincoln Restler raises concerns about a manhole explosion incident in Brooklyn Heights and the lack of follow-up communication from FDNY and Con Edison. The incident occurred on Thanksgiving …

1:46:30

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167 sec

Q&A

McGinnis Boulevard redesign and its impact on emergency vehicle access

Council Member Lincoln Restler inquires about the recent redesign of McGinnis Boulevard, which includes wider bike lanes that can accommodate emergency vehicles. He asks if this design could be a …

1:49:17

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3 min

REMARKS

Balancing protected bike lanes with emergency response times

Council Member Lincoln Restler emphasizes the importance of achieving a network of protected bike lanes to improve cyclist and pedestrian safety while also considering emergency response times. He suggests that …

1:52:56

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77 sec

Q&A

Impact of congestion pricing on emergency response times in Lower Manhattan

Council Member Lincoln Restler inquires about the impact of congestion pricing on emergency response times in Lower Manhattan, particularly for the area south of 59th Street. The FDNY officials are …

1:54:13

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138 sec

Q&A

Federal funding for FDNY and its importance to the department's budget

Council Member Joann Ariola inquires about the amount of federal funding the FDNY receives and its importance to the department's budget. Commissioner Robert Tucker provides information on the current federal …

1:56:34

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96 sec

Q&A

Increase in brush fires and firefighting challenges in NYC parks

Council Member Joann Ariola asks about factors contributing to the severe increase in brush fires from 2023 to 2024. Commissioner Robert Tucker explains the challenges and FDNY's response to these …

1:58:11

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83 sec

Q&A

Council Member Marmorato inquires about FDNY fire marshal staffing and recruitment

Council Member Kristy Marmorato engages in a brief Q&A session with FDNY officials regarding fire marshal staffing and recruitment. Deputy Commissioner Lizette Christoff provides current staffing numbers and plans for …

1:59:35

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67 sec

REMARKS

Council Member Ariola's closing remarks on FDNY budget and performance

Council Member Joann Ariola concludes the hearing with strong support for the FDNY, praising their preparation and leadership while emphasizing the need for significant budget increases. She argues for a …

2:00:49

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3 min

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Introduction and overview of NYCEM's mission

Commissioner Zachary Iscol introduces himself and provides an overview of the New York City Emergency Management Department's mission. He emphasizes the agency's role in coordinating emergency responses, developing plans, and …

2:18:20

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64 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Overview of NYCEM's emergency responses in 2024

Commissioner Iscol provides a comprehensive overview of NYCEM's emergency response activities in 2024, highlighting the agency's involvement in various incidents and planned events. - NYCEM monitored 3,331 incidents and responded …

2:19:26

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82 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

NYCEM's community engagement and preparedness initiatives

Commissioner Iscol outlines NYCEM's efforts to engage with and prepare New York City communities for emergencies through various initiatives and programs. - Launched the city's first citywide multilingual mailer to …

2:20:49

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46 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

New York Task Force One deployments and support for other jurisdictions

Commissioner Iscol details the activities of New York Task Force One, a FEMA National Urban Search and Rescue Response System team managed by NYCEM, in supporting other jurisdictions during emergencies. …

2:21:36

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61 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

NYCEM's technological innovations and recovery efforts

Commissioner Iscol highlights NYCEM's use of innovative technologies and strategies to enhance emergency preparedness, response, and recovery efforts in New York City. - Deployed drones to monitor shark activity on …

2:22:39

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81 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

NYCEM's funding challenges and staffing issues

Commissioner Iscol addresses the funding challenges faced by NYCEM, particularly related to federal grants, and highlights staffing issues within the agency. - 66% of NYCEM's budgeted headcount is supported by …

2:24:00

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104 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Concerns about federal budget cuts and their impact on emergency management

Commissioner Iscol expresses serious concerns about the impacts of federal budget cuts on emergency management capabilities at the local, state, and federal levels. - Federal agencies provide unique expertise and …

2:25:45

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126 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

NYCEM's 90-day risk assessment process

Commissioner Iscol announces a new 90-day process to assess risks and develop solutions in response to potential federal funding cuts and changing emergency management landscape. - NYCEM will immediately commence …

2:27:52

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39 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

NYCEM's budget breakdown for fiscal year 2026

Commissioner Iscol provides a detailed breakdown of NYCEM's projected budget for fiscal year 2026, highlighting key allocations and funding sources. - Total projected FY2026 city tax levy expense budget is …

2:28:32

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81 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Commissioner Iscol's closing remarks

Commissioner Iscol concludes his testimony with appreciation for NYCEM staff and expresses his commitment to leading the agency. - Expresses admiration for dedicated emergency managers who fulfill dual roles - …

2:29:53

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31 sec

Q&A

NYCEM's approach to potential federal funding cuts

Council Member Ariola inquires about NYCEM's preparation for potential loss of federal funds. Commissioner Iscol explains the agency's reliance on the Urban Area Security Initiative grant program and outlines their …

2:30:37

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101 sec

Q&A

Emergency planning for coastal storms and evacuations

Council Member Ariola and Commissioner Iscol discuss NYCEM's planning for emergency shelters and evacuation routes, particularly in areas that have recently become evacuation zones. Commissioner Iscol outlines the agency's comprehensive …

2:32:18

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179 sec

Q&A

Flood preparedness and response strategies across NYC

Council Member Ariola and Commissioner Iscol discuss NYCEM's approach to flood preparedness and response in various areas of NYC, including coastal regions and areas vulnerable to rainfall-induced flooding. The conversation …

2:35:20

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3 min

REMARKS

NYCEM's basement apartment emergency notification system

First Deputy Commissioner Farrell explains NYCEM's newly implemented basement apartment notification system, which aims to alert residents in vulnerable areas during emergencies. This system addresses the evolving needs for emergency …

2:38:52

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79 sec

Q&A

NYCEM's interagency coordination for hazard mitigation

Council Member Ariola inquires about NYCEM's coordination with other city agencies like DEP, DOT, and DOB, especially in light of new housing policies. Commissioner Iscol explains NYCEM's role in hazard …

2:40:12

·

98 sec

Q&A

NYCEM's collaboration on wildfire prevention and rain gardens

Council Member Ariola and Commissioner Iscol briefly discuss NYCEM's involvement in wildfire prevention efforts and coordination with other agencies on issues like rain gardens. The conversation highlights the need for …

2:41:50

·

70 sec

Q&A

NYCEM's staffing and operational adjustments during asylum seeker crisis

Council Member Ariola inquires about NYCEM's staffing and operational changes during the asylum seeker crisis. Commissioner Iscol and First Deputy Commissioner Farrell explain the agency's adaptive approach and the lessons …

2:43:01

·

155 sec

Q&A

NYCEM's budget requests and financial needs

Chief Financial Officer Blanco provides a comprehensive overview of NYCEM's budget requests for the upcoming fiscal year. The requests address various needs, including offsetting federal funding reductions, structural deficits, and …

2:45:37

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3 min

REMARKS

Importance of career pathways and staff retention at NYCEM

Commissioner Iscol emphasizes the critical importance of investing in NYCEM's staff, highlighting the need for clear career pathways and competitive salaries to retain experienced personnel. He argues that this investment …

2:49:21

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85 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Sharon Brown on FDNY and EMS Funding

Sharon Brown testified on the importance of increased funding for the FDNY and EMS, emphasizing that the current budget is insufficient for their needs. She stressed the need for preparation …

3:04:32

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131 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Sakeena Trice, Senior Staff Attorney of the Disability Justice Program at New York Lawyers for the Public Interest (NYLPI)

Sakeena Trice from NYLPI expressed deep concerns about the city's practices regarding involuntary removal of individuals perceived to have mental illness for psychiatric evaluation. She urged for significant changes to …

3:06:45

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102 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Joe Gorman, Chief of Staff/Executive Administrator of Friends of Firefighters

Joe Gorman, representing Friends of Firefighters, testified about the critical need for mental health support for FDNY firefighters and their families. He highlighted the high rates of stress, depression, and …

3:08:33

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146 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Tyler Weaver, Former EMT, on FDNY Budget and EMS Response Times

Tyler Weaver, a former EMT, testified about the need for additional funding in the 2026 FDNY budget to address high EMS response times. He shared a personal experience of his …

3:11:18

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124 sec

Q&A

Council member Ariola asks for additional input on EMS response times

Council Member Joann Ariola engages in a Q&A session with Tyler Weaver, a former EMT who testified about EMS response times. Ariola acknowledges Weaver's personal experience and asks for additional …

3:13:24

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105 sec

REMARKS

Council member Ariola responds to testimony on EMS funding and response times

Council Member Joann Ariola concludes the discussion by acknowledging the issues raised and expressing commitment to addressing them. She emphasizes the need for action beyond just recognizing the problems. - …

3:15:10

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36 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Christopher Leon Johnson on E-Bike Regulations and Worker Advocacy

Christopher Leon Johnson testified remotely about the need for proper e-bike regulations in New York City, demonstrating unsafe e-bike usage on 44th Street. He advocated for passing Intro 606 and …

3:16:05

·

130 sec

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