After shuffling through multiple interim fire chiefs for over two years, the La Verne Fire Department hired Christopher Nigg, former Fire Marshal for Fullerton and Brea, to helm the department.
La Verne firefighters and city officials are at odds about the safety of the community and the department’s ability to keep the community safe, because of ongoing funding and staffing shortages.
After the city council rejected previous proposals to consider contracting with the Los Angeles County Fire Department, Councilman Muir Davis put forward a vote for a study – this time, one that would come at no cost to the city.
The La Verne Firefighters Association, the local chapter of the International Association of Firefighters union, is suing the city of La Verne, La Verne Fire Chief Peter Jankowski and Battalion Chief Michael Thompson.
The La Verne City Council last week approved a cost-saving measure regarding Fire Department staffing, over the objections of many who are afraid the change will diminish the safety of city residents.