Council approves Sylmar fire station purchase, backs future bond to repair and build fire stations citywide

The Los Angeles City Council on March 25 approved the acquisition of property for a future Sylmar Fire Station and adopted related actions supporting a proposed bond measure to repair and build fire stations across the city.

Councilmember Rodriguez described Sylmar as a community long underserved by fire resources and called the acquisition “a promise delivered.” Rodriguez said Sylmar lies in a high fire hazard severity zone and has lacked the station capacity and personnel needed to meet standards of cover.

Councilmember Park framed the vote in the context of recent wildfires, including the January 7 Pacific Palisades fire, saying the city needs a “21st‑century fire department.” Park highlighted deteriorated station infrastructure across the city and urged exploration of a 2026 ballot measure dedicated to repairing and constructing stations and supporting department equipment.

Council discussion referenced standards of cover, APARUs (apparatus and personnel resources), and the need to invest in station repairs and new construction. Supporters said the Sylmar site acquisition combined with a future bond would help close long‑standing gaps in service.

The council adopted item 8 as amended and approved item 16 (property acquisition) in the same action; roll call recorded 15 ayes. The meeting record shows the council directed staff to continue work on acquisition and to pursue planning for the bond measure; no bond language or bond authorization was finalized at the meeting.

Ending: The council approved the Sylmar acquisition and a package of measures to pursue station repairs and new construction funding; staff follow‑up was directed to develop details and a possible 2026 ballot proposal.