State of the Fire Department and Fire Station 4
Montebello
Summary
Chief Pelaez reported the department is at about 100 employees, manages $15 million in grants, and expects Fire Station 4 in the hills to be built within one to two years with six to eight staff — pending more grant funding.
At a glance
- Total mentions
- 2
- Last 30 days
- 0
Last discussed May 13, 2026.
Impact analysis
Station 4 funding is being pursued through grants and state/federal contributions rather than the general fund.
Residents north of the 60 freeway, who currently face long response delays.
Residents face slower or thinner emergency response; firefighters face a workplace many described as hostile.
Mentions & discussions (2)
City Council - May 13, 2026
Firefighters and their families told the council that eight paramedics just left for LA County Fire, that 42 people are staffing 60 positions, and that years of retaliation claims and lawsuits under Chief Fernando Pelaez are driving people out. Council members called for an investigation of the department's leadership.
City Council - Jan 28, 2026
Chief Pelaez reported the department is at about 100 employees, manages $15 million in grants, and expects Fire Station 4 in the hills to be built within one to two years with six to eight staff — pending more grant funding.
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