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Fire Department reports dozens deployed to wildfire mutual aid, updates on stations and equipment projects
Summary
Deputy Chief Jose Velo told the Commission that 51 members were deployed to several wildfires (including CCU and LNU lightning complex incidents), described mutual‑aid coordination with CAL FIRE and outlined station projects (Treasure Island Station 35 targeted for February completion; Station 49 delayed until mid‑December/early January). The department also reported missing historical facility maintenance records after an MIS upgrade and ongoing efforts to obtain PFAS‑free turnout gear.
At the Aug. 26 Fire Commission meeting, Deputy Chief Jose Velo provided a report covering mutual aid deployments, training and facility projects. Velo said 51 members were deployed across multiple fires, including the CCU (Santa Cruz CAL FIRE unit) and the LNU lightning complex, and described immediate‑need assistance in Vacaville that protected homes during active fire conditions.
Velo summarized the department’s mutual‑aid posture and reimbursements, noting the State and federal cost‑reimbursement mechanisms that usually allow backfill of personnel. ‘‘We have 51 folks there. We have work in many more fires than that,’’ Velo said, describing deployments to the CCU and LNU complexes and other incidents in the region.
On facilities, Velo gave construction updates: Station 35 on Treasure Island is progressing toward a February completion; Station 49’s schedule moved to mid‑December/early January because of contractor and utility (PUC/PG&E) delays, but the project is expected to remain within budget. Velo also described a host/hose tower removal project funded through bond funds to address towers that are not seismically safe; Station 15 will retain a reinforced tower for historical reasons.
Support Services reported an MIS upgrade on July 30 removed or temporarily hid many years of closed facility‑maintenance history from the HRMS database; Support Services deputy chief Dawn DeWitt said some records have been restored and staff are working with MIS to recover missing historical entries so maintenance patterns are preserved.
Commissioners and staff also discussed procurement priorities for turnout gear that does not contain PFAS. Velo said procurement committees have begun meetings with manufacturers and noted national standards and NFPA committee engagement on alternatives. The Commission heard that several manufacturers and industry groups are exploring PFAS‑free options but that industry standards must balance thermal protection and new materials testing.
The Commission set future agenda items including a budget follow‑up and a scheduled presentation by Los Bamberos; it adjourned at 06:23.
