Solano County Board of Supervisors takes charge of three fire protection districts

The Solano County Board of Supervisors took a significant step towards enhancing fire protection services during their recent meeting on April 17, 2025, by approving a governance change that will see them assume leadership of the Suisun, Montezuma, and Vacaville Fire Protection Districts. This decision, which passed unanimously, is part of a broader effort to consolidate fire services in the region, a recommendation that has been echoed in multiple grand jury reports over the past two decades.

The consolidation aims to improve efficiency and resource allocation among the three districts, which have faced challenges in funding and service delivery. Nancy Nelson, a senior management analyst with the county, presented a detailed history of previous studies and efforts that have highlighted the need for such a change. The board's decision is expected to streamline operations and enhance emergency response capabilities across the districts.

Public comments during the meeting reflected a mix of support and concern from residents. Many expressed appreciation for the improvements made by the Vacaville Fire Protection District, particularly in response times and resource availability. However, some residents voiced apprehension about how the consolidation might affect local budgets and service levels, fearing that their specific needs might be overlooked in a larger governance structure.

Chris Calvert, chair of the Vacaville Fire Protection District, spoke in favor of the consolidation, emphasizing the importance of collaboration among districts to enhance fire safety. He highlighted the successful partnerships and memorandums of understanding (MOUs) that have already been established to support this initiative.

Concerns were raised by residents like Christine Reeder, who questioned whether the unique needs of the Vacaville area would be adequately represented under the new governance model. She pointed out the district's distinct challenges, including high call volumes and specific geographical hazards, urging the board to ensure that local resources and funding remain focused on their community.

In response to these concerns, Supervisor Williams suggested the creation of an advisory board to maintain local input and representation in decision-making processes. This proposal aims to ensure that while the board of supervisors takes on a more direct role, the voices of local residents and firefighters continue to be heard.

As the board moves forward with this consolidation, they are committed to addressing the community's needs and ensuring that the transition leads to improved fire protection services for all residents in Solano County. The next steps will involve developing a memorandum of understanding to define interim operations and a comprehensive plan for service delivery that considers the unique characteristics of each district.