Council presses Moraga‑Orinda Fire District over proposed paramedic staffing changes, creates joint ad hoc committee

Moraga’s Town Council on May 14 voiced strong concern about proposed changes to paramedic and ambulance staffing at the Moraga‑Orinda Fire District (MOFD) and directed staff to pursue formal coordination with the district.

Town Manager Scott briefed the council after residents raised alarms that MOFD budget and labor changes could reduce ambulance availability in Moraga from a 24‑hour domiciled ambulance to fewer hours or different staffing. Scott said the district’s chief had proposed a solution that could preserve round‑the‑clock ambulance availability but alter staffing models and that the district’s board would consider recommendations at its May 21 meeting.

Scott told the council: “Public safety is our number 1 public, number 1 responsibility,” and urged the council to seek a formal commitment from the fire district. Longtime resident and public commenter Mr. Olson (spelled Olsen/Olson in the record) summarized earlier history and technical concerns in a prepared letter and at the podium.

Council members said they were surprised that the personnel changes and their operational impacts had not previously been shared directly with Moraga staff or elected officials. Several members called the proposal “unacceptable” or “insane” and pressed for an aggressive but cooperative approach to preserve ambulance availability. Several council members urged broad resident turnout at the MOFD board meeting next week.

The council directed staff to draft a strongly worded letter expressing the town’s concern and to have the mayor deliver the town’s position at the MOFD board meeting if possible. The council also agreed to form a joint Moraga‑MOFD ad hoc committee (to be administered by the town) mirroring Orinda’s committee model; Mayor Steve Walicky and Councilmember Carrie (as recorded) were identified as the town’s initial representatives and staff will return with a formal structure and resolution.

Town staff said the fire chief has proposed an option that would maintain 24‑hour ambulance availability but that the staffing model would move toward “single‑role” paramedic staffing and that the district’s board would vote on the recommended plan. Staff also highlighted geographic vulnerabilities for Moraga — greater road distances to hospitals and clustered senior care facilities — and said those factors justify requesting continued 24‑hour ambulance presence in town.

The council’s actions were procedural directions and a show of firm concern; the MOFD board will make the district’s final decision. The town manager and mayor said they would deliver a written letter and follow up with the fire chief and district board.

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Sources: Town Manager briefing; public comments by Mr. Olsen and other residents; council deliberations.