Arbitrator Rules Omaha Fire Responses too Slow

An arbitrator has ruled that Omaha, Neb., must put deploy more firefighters and medics because the city’s response times don’t measure up to national standards.

The arbitrator ruled last week on a July 2013 grievance by the firefighters union. The union says the city violated a contract provision that says the city should try to meet the national standards.

The arbitrator also says city officials must write a report identifying deficiencies in response times throughout Omaha.

Mayor Jean Stothert says the city will appeal the arbitrator’s rulings.