"In an effort to manage an unrealistic budget the Omaha Fire Department has reduced the services to the citizens we serve today. Engine 2 and Medic Unit 2, from council District 3, and Medic Unit 44 from council District 7, have been taken out of service for the day.

In addition to the potential for delayed responses to the citizens we serve, this also places Omaha’s firefighters at greater risk for injury. At a time when services should remain consistent, your elected officials have chosen to reduce services.

Omaha’s Professional Firefighters also believe these actions violate the Commission of Industrial Relation’s status quo order and we have filed a contempt action against the city of Omaha, the Omaha City Council, the fire chief and the mayor.

We will continue to serve the citizens of Omaha to the best of our capabilities. The people of Omaha are paying more for reduced services at a time, as evidenced by two multiple alarm fires this past week, when services should at a minimum be maintained."