Commission hears updates on training center bond, AWSS and new ambulances; Station 16 and Station 35 plans discussed

Department leaders updated the commission on capital projects, fleet replacements and training plans.

Deputy Chief Janine Nicholson said inspections for the first of 15 ordered ambulances took place in Southern California and that 10 ambulances could be en route in February with five to follow. She reported two new fire engines were due to arrive from the manufacturer in Louisiana and undergo outfitting before assignment.

On facilities and capital funding, Nicholson said the department is working with the city administrator and Public Works on a proposed training center that has been discussed for the 2019 bond. "The training center funding is slated to be in the 2019 Easter bond," Nicholson said, and attendees discussed a not-yet-final figure of about $150,000,000 for that project. Nicholson also said AWSS (Auxiliary Water Supply System) work remains a priority and had been included in bond planning as an item suggested at roughly $125,000,000.

Chief Joanne Hayes White reported Station 16 personnel have returned to their station and that a ribbon-cutting featuring Mayor Breed was scheduled for Jan. 31. The chiefs also described negotiations with the Port regarding a new Station 35 (a floating platform) including proposed rent arrangements and an MOU in process.

Commissioners asked for more detail about bond timelines, costs associated with site acquisition and remediation, and the assignment plan for incoming apparatus. Chief Nicholson said bond numbers and schedule were not final and that staff would forward updated timelines to commissioners.

The commission received the reports with no formal capital votes taken during the meeting.