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San Antonio Fire Department proposes squad expansion, drones and $1.4 million needs assessment in FY2026 budget
Summary
Fire Chief Frosto presented a $443.6 million fiscal 2026 general-fund request that funds two new two-person squads, a drone purchase, a $1.4 million needs assessment and continued station design work; current staffing, ISO accreditation and medical call volume framed the department’s priorities.
Fire Chief Frosto told the City Council during the Aug. 19 budget work session that the San Antonio Fire Department’s proposed fiscal 2026 general-fund budget is $443,600,000 and focuses on staffing, equipment and facilities to preserve public safety.
Frosto said the department is proposing two new two-person squad units and 12 uniformed positions “designed to reduce response times, lighten the workload on frontline units, and enhance service in high-demand areas.” The presentation says the two squads would be housed at Station 10 and Station 21 and — if approved — would come online in July 2026.
Why it matters: Frosto described medical calls as roughly 80% of total incidents and said increasing unit capacity in busy locations can reduce wear on engines and free…
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