Mayor Bass Dismisses Fire Chief—How It Impacts CRE
Mayor Karen Bass removed Fire Chief Kristin Crowley over concerns about wildfire response, sparking debate among officials, firefighters, and residents.
What You Need to Know
In January 2025, wildfires killed over 20 people and damaged nearly 18,000 buildings in Los Angeles.
Mayor Bass removed Chief Crowley for alleged mismanagement, including sending 1,000 firefighters' home at a critical time and not reviewing the incident afterward.
The firefighters' union opposed the dismissal, blaming underfunding and lack of resources for the department's struggles.
After Crowley’s removal, Ronnie Villanueva, a 41-year department veteran, was named interim fire chief.
How It Impacts You
For property owners and managers, the LAFD leadership change could have several important impacts:
Fire Inspections and Compliance: The leadership change could delay fire inspections, permits, and code enforcement, impacting building compliance and tenant safety.
Disaster Preparedness: Property managers should watch for changes in fire response, evacuation plans, and safety rules under new leadership.
Insurance Impact: Any possible changes in fire department funding could affect risk assessments and property insurance costs.
Fire Safety Rules: Increased scrutiny of LAFD could lead to new fire safety rules or stricter enforcement.
Stay Connected
CRE professionals should watch how the leadership change affects fire safety rules, emergency response, and preparedness in LA.
Stay connected on BOMA on the Frontline for more updates.
