Arcata’s fire and police chiefs report rising calls, staffing changes and outreach efforts

Arcata’s public‑safety leaders delivered year‑end overviews highlighting operational pressure, staffing changes and community programs.

Arcata Fire District: The fire chief reported a notable increase in call volume for 2025, citing a 9.8% rise in total calls and a 3.1% increase in fire incidents (from about 161 to 166). The district covers roughly 64 square miles and serves an estimated jurisdiction population of about 37,000. The chief described software and dispatch changes (migration to First Due), a 94% property save rate compared with other jurisdictions, increased service calls and the importance of interagency drills and mutual aid. He emphasized continuing investments in hydrant flows, state‑mandated inspections and public education.

Arcata Police Department: Chief Chris Ortega summarized 2025 operations: the department handled nearly 36,000 incidents, including more than 23,000 calls for service; it investigated over 2,600 cases and made about 1,600 arrests. Ortega said serious violent crime remained relatively low and reported zero homicides in 2025. The department has filled sworn positions ‘on paper,’ though some officers are still in academy or field training. Ortega highlighted alternate response and outreach models: ACOT responded to roughly 895 calls, removed about 400,000 pounds of waste from green spaces, and expanded outreach into Valley West; juvenile diversion supported 94 families and diverted 33 youth from the criminal justice system.

Council and public response: Council members thanked first responders, asked for shared training and grant coordination (including participation in a ‘gang of five’ homeland security grant), and requested slides from the presentations be made available to the council and public. Several councilmembers and residents reiterated support for continued interagency coordination and resilience planning, especially given a major January 2 fire that relied on newly updated water storage capacity.