Fire chief touts rescues, seeks life‑pack replacements; Arch program expected to get state funding

Fire Chief Jimmy Walker presented the Fire Department’s FY2025–26 study session overview, describing operational accomplishments, equipment needs and program developments.

Walker said the department has increased EMS and fire training, implemented a new records/reporting system and bought multiple pumpers and ladder trucks. He highlighted that since the start of the year the department conducted 17 human rescues from structure fires.

Life‑pack replacement: The department proposed funding to replace cardiac monitor/defibrillator units (life‑packs). Walker described a $172,000 package to replace 17 monitors, financed over seven years at 0% for budget cash‑flow reasons; the replacement would provide newer monitors and improved capability to transmit patient data to receiving hospitals.

Arch program funding: Walker told council he understood the state had approved additional funding for the Arch program and described roughly $1 million as the expected allocation; he said details about how the funds will reach the city are pending and staff will provide follow‑up. Walker emphasized the city’s desire to expand Arch coverage during weekdays and to target high utilizers for intervention in partnership with clinicians and community paramedics.

Operational finance: Walker also said the fire department’s general fund monies are being transferred to the sales tax fund to align capital projects and that personnel costs remain the largest cost driver. The proposed life‑pack replacement and other packages were presented as budget items for FY2025–26; no final council vote occurred in the study session.

Ending: Staff said they will provide additional budget detail and implementation plans through the budget hearings and follow‑up reports; the study session was an informational presentation.