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Fire chief seeks station expansion, apparatus replacements and wellness measures to keep pace with growth

5719525 · August 19, 2025

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Summary

Fairview’s fire chief outlined a five-year plan calling for construction of a new Station 32, replacement of aging apparatus (including a heavy rescue), expanded staffing tied to new stations, and health protections for firefighters.

The Fairview Fire Department presented a five-year strategic plan that focuses on facility capacity, apparatus replacement and personnel wellness. Chief Zach Hughes said the department is operating from a single station that was reconfigured repeatedly to accommodate staff and that a new Station 32 (land acquired; plans drawn) is included in the department’s near-term capital priorities.

Apparatus and life-cycle planning: The fire chief said fire apparatus have a longer service life (roughly 15–20 years) but require long lead times; he recommended restarting a multi-year apparatus replacement plan because new vehicles can take two to three years to be manufactured and delivered. The department is seeking to replace a 2008 engine and an aging heavy rescue that has required extended shop time.

Staffing and operations: The plan calls for a phased staffing expansion to operate two stations on a 24/7 basis, with 12 personnel assigned per shift when Station 32 opens. The department cited NFPA standards and ISO considerations when explaining desired staffing increases and said minimum staffing of six per shift is currently fragile: absences quickly create understaffed shifts.

Wellness and safety: Chief Hughes also emphasized firefighter health risks and proposed a wellness program (fitness and mental-health supports) and facility design changes to reduce carcinogen exposure (decontamination areas). Annual physicals and cancer-screening protocols are already in use and the chief asked the commission to support proactive health measures.

Ending: Fire leadership will forward cost estimates for Station 32 construction, apparatus replacement timing, and a phased personnel plan so the commission can evaluate priorities in the capital and operating budgets.