SFFD reports 43 recruits in academy, mutual-aid strike teams deployed to Mariposa fire

Chief Joanne Hayes White updated the Fire Commission on department activities including budget, training and recent mutual-aid deployments.

White said the city's two-year budget was adopted and that the department is closing out FY 2016-17 without identified concerns. She reported that the 122nd recruit academy is in its 14th week and is scheduled to graduate 43 members on Sept. 8 at Treasure Island after final testing and HAZMAT training.

The chief noted recent mutual-aid activity: the department sent 27 members (five engine companies and command personnel) as part of a strike team to the Detwiler fire in Mariposa County; a department-maintained state rig was also deployed. Assistant Chief Siragusa reported the strike-team deployment went smoothly and highlighted the statewide mutual-aid system's capacity for large multiagency responses.

Deputy Chief Ramona Williams gave the administrative update covering facilities projects (Pump Station 1, Station 5, Station 16), training activities (driver, pump and aerial operations testing; live-burn training at Treasure Island), reserves (27 recent fire-reserve graduates; 53 reservists total) and EMS licensure maintenance. Williams said construction work is ongoing at multiple stations and provided status on soil sampling and demolition where applicable.

Commissioners praised recent operational responses, asked for metrics on training needs and staffing, and expressed support to continue working with the chief and staff to secure needed resources. No further formal action was taken on the chief's report at this meeting.